distinguishing how to display data.

[essendon2000]

Whats the best way to distinguish how to display specific data?
I've seen this question on a few exam 1's for further and would like a sure proof method of choosing a display. thanks

[Gloamglozer]

Are you using Essentials?  If so, go to page 109 (at the end of chapter 4) and there will be a table telling you/summarising which graph to use depending on the IV and DV.

EDIT:  If not, then:

1.  Segmented bar chart
DV: Categorical
IV: Categorical

2.  Parallel box plots
DV: Categorical
IV: Numerical

3.  Back-to-back stemplot (box plots preferred)
DV: Categorical (two categories only)
IV: Numerical

4.  Scatterplot
DV: Numerical
IV: Numerical

Where DV is the dependent variable and the IV is the independent variable.