Section 6: Graphical Methods

Instructor: Frank Harrell

Graphical methods can provide simple and effective summaries of study results. This is particularly true for the results of complex statistical modeling procedures. Graphical methods may also uncover problems in the data or deficiencies in the model selected. This section describes graphical methods for presenting the results of a study, and methods for avoiding misleading or confusing graphs.

Handouts

Learning Objectives

1. To describe some of the most frequent mistakes made in medical graphics.
2. To discuss methods to better illustrate the point that poorly generated graphics were trying to make.
3. To discuss methods to illustrate multiple variables.

Required Reading

• K&S Sections 3.4, 3.5
• Handout
• Singer PA, Feinstein AR. Graphical display of categorical data. J Clin Epi 46:231-236; 1993.