University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

Color can be used to differentiate chart data in four primary ways:

- Distinguishing categories from one another
- Representing quantity
- Highlighting specific data
- Expressing meaning

Color in Data 

Color is used to define categories in a donut chart.


Color distinguishes categories

Color is used to represent data values in a map.

Color represents quantity

Color is used to highlight specific data in a scatterplot.

Color highlights dataColor highlights data

Color can highlight an area of focus, when it is used sparingly. It’s not recommended to use a substantial amount of color highlights, as they can distract and hinder user focus.

Areas of focus

Color indicates meaning

- Visual Accessibility
- Auditory Accessibility
- Mobility
- Seizures
- Learning and Cognitive Accessibility
- Color Theory for Accessibility


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