A chart is a graphic representation of some data. Charts are often used to make large quantities of data more easily understandable, and recognizable on first view.

Charts can represent data in several different ways. Some of the different methods are listed below. Charts represent data in different ways depending on the type of data that is presented. For example, a customer satisfaction response may be measured in percentages - the percentage of customers satisfied, not satisfied, and unsure. In this instance, a "pie chart" may be used successfully. A pie chart is visually appealing and allows for greatest recognition since the number of satisfaction responses can be easily compared to the number of dissatisfaction responses by comparing the size of each sector of the pie graph, which is not easily done if presented, for example, in a histogram (or bar chart).

Charts can be created dynamically by computers using a charting application.

Charts are not always used for mathematical purposes, but are also used in many widely differing areas.

Examples of various charts

Statistics

• Bar chart
• Pie chart
• Histogram
• Fever chart or line graph

Biology

• Pedigree chart

Project management / planning

• Flowchart
• Gantt chart (project management)

Maps

• Nautical chart

Political theory

• Nolan chart
• Pournelle chart

A chart is also a specific data structure in computer science.

• Chart (data structure) , Chart parser

Chart has a different meaning in mathematics other than that above, in topology in considering manifolds - see Chart (topology)

Chart is also a generic term for a tabular representation of some data. The "Top 40" chart often describes the list of the 40 best selling compact discs, for example. See also Hit parade.

• IPA chart for English (phonetics)
• SAMPA chart (phonetics)
• UK classical chart (music)
• Chart of Accounts (accounting)

A chart is also a casual term for a written piece of music, usually in jazz. Arrangements written for big bands are often called "charts," while smaller groups use the term "chart" to refer to lead sheets .