In the exam, you will not be asked to draw an entire graph. However, it is common to be asked to complete an unfinished graph using the data provided. You may also be asked to identify anomalous results or to draw the best fit line on a scatter graph.
| Strengths | Limitations |
| The clear visual impression of the changes over space | Makes it seem as if there is an abrupt change in the boundary |
| Shows a large amount of data | Distinguishing between shades can be difficult |
| Groupings are flexible | Variations within the value set are not visible |
Choropleth Map Showing Variations in Income in London
| Strengths | Limitations |
| Illustrates the differences between many places | Not easy to calculate the actual value |
| Easy to read | Time-consuming to construct |
| Data is specific to particular locations | Positioning on a map may be difficult, particularly with larger symbols |
Proportional Circles Map Showing GDP (Billion US$) across Europe
In the exam, you may be asked why a particular graphical technique is appropriate. You should ensure that you know the advantages and disadvantages of the different data presentation methods.
| Strengths | Limitations |
| An accurate record of the time | Not all photographs are relevant |
| Can represent things more clearly than numerical data | Can be subjective and biased as the student selects what is photographed |
| Can be used to show data-collection techniques | Photographs sometimes contain too much information |
| Can be used next to historical photographs to show changes over time | They are two dimensional so judging depth is difficult |
| Helps recall key features |
| Strengths | Limitations |
| Things can be left out of the sketch if they are not relevant to the enquiry | The scale in the sketch may be inaccurate |
| Smaller important areas can be more detailed | Important details may be missed |
| Gives a broad overview of the features | The sketch may contain inaccuracies which affect the analysis for example more litter than there actually was at the site |
| Helps recall of key features |
| Strengths | Limitations |
| Size and scale of features/site can be accurately measured | The map may be out of date |
| Key to show features around the sample sites | Maps cannot show changes over time |
| Allows distribution of features to be shown accurately | Bias may be introduced by highlighting certain features |
the (exam) results speak for themselves:
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After graduating with a degree in Geography, Bridgette completed a PGCE over 25 years ago. She later gained an MA Learning, Technology and Education from the University of Nottingham focussing on online learning. At a time when the study of geography has never been more important, Bridgette is passionate about creating content which supports students in achieving their potential in geography and builds their confidence.
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