Which type of graph is best for showing trends over time?

A line graph is most effective for showing trends over time because it uses a continuous line to connect individual data points, which allows for clear visualization of changes over intervals. This format enables viewers to easily interpret increases, decreases, and patterns within the data over a specified time frame.

Line graphs excel in depicting data points that are sequential, like monthly sales figures, temperature readings over days, or stock prices over a year. This is important when the primary goal is to analyze how a variable behaves or changes as time progresses.

In contrast, bar graphs are typically better for comparing discrete categories rather than showing changes over time, pie charts are designed to illustrate parts of a whole at a specific moment, and histograms focus on the distribution of data across different ranges. Thus, while each type of graph has its specific uses, the line graph is uniquely suited to represent trends across temporal data effectively.