---
title: "Chart vs table; bar vs pie graph"
subject: "Communication English"
chapter: 4
key: "semester_5/communication_english:differences-chart-table-bar-pie"
source: https://www.bctengineer.com/q/semester_5/communication_english/differences-chart-table-bar-pie
site: BCT Engineering
---

# Chart vs table; bar vs pie graph

Communication English · Chapter 4: Introduction to technical writing process

- Asked in: 2081 Chaitra (new course), 5 marks
- Video: [How To Choose The Right Graph (Types of Graphs and When To Use Them)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o7F-tbBl_hA) — UNDATABLE
- Answer checked by Claude Opus 5.5 (high effort) on 2026-10-14
- Page: https://www.bctengineer.com/q/semester_5/communication_english/differences-chart-table-bar-pie
- Whole chapter: https://www.bctengineer.com/md/semester_5/communication_english/chapter-4

## Question

Bring out the differences between the following:
i) Chart and table
ii) Bar graph and pie graph

## Short answer

A table arranges exact data in rows and columns for reference, while a chart uses symbols or shapes to show relationships or processes at a glance. A bar graph uses rectangular bars on axes to compare values across categories or over time, whereas a pie graph divides a circle into sectors to show parts of a whole as percentages.

## Answer

#### i) Chart and table

A **table** arranges exact data in rows and columns. A **chart** is a general term for a graphic that shows information using shapes, lines or symbols (for example, a flow chart or organization chart).

| Point | Table | Chart |
|---|---|---|
| Form | Rows and columns of words and figures | Picture, symbols, lines or boxes |
| Purpose | Gives exact values for reference and comparison | Shows relationships, structure or process quickly |
| Visual effect | Plain, less attractive | More attractive and eye-catching |
| Skill needed | Easy to prepare | Needs more skill and time |
| Examples | Exam result table, price list | Flow chart, organization chart, Gantt chart |
| Reading | Reader must read and compare numbers | Reader grasps the idea at a glance |

#### ii) Bar graph and pie graph

| Point | Bar graph | Pie graph |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Rectangular bars on x and y axes | A circle divided into sectors |
| Shows | Comparison of values across categories or over time | Parts of a whole as percentages |
| Data | Many items and time series | Few items (usually 5-6) that add up to 100% |
| Axes | Has two axes with a scale | No axes |
| Reading | Height or length of bars shows the size | Angle or area of each slice shows the share |
| Example | Annual sales of a company over 5 years | Share of a budget spent on each head |

## Check yourself

The answer's key points as multiple-choice questions, with the correct option and why.

1. What does a table give?
   A. A picture of relationships
   B. Exact values in rows and columns for reference
   C. Only percentages in a circle
   D. Only a flow of process
   Answer: B. Tables arrange exact data. (Key point: Table)

2. Which is an example of a chart?
   A. Price list
   B. Exam result table
   C. Phone directory
   D. Flow chart or organization chart
   Answer: D. Charts use shapes, lines or symbols. (Key point: Chart)

3. What does a pie graph show?
   A. Values over many years
   B. Parts of a whole as percentages
   C. Two axes with a scale
   D. Exact numbers in cells
   Answer: B. A pie divides a whole into sectors. (Key point: Pie graph)

4. When is a bar graph preferred?
   A. To show shares adding to 100% with few items
   B. To avoid axes
   C. To show a flow of steps
   D. To compare values across categories or time with many items
   Answer: D. Bar graphs have axes and suit comparisons. (Key point: Bar graph)

## Related in Communication English

- [Bar graph of work schedule](https://www.bctengineer.com/question.md?key=semester_5%2Fcommunication_english%3Abar-graph-work-schedule) — Communication English, chapter 4, asked 2×

## Related in other subjects

- [Bar chart vs CPM/PERT as planning tool](https://www.bctengineer.com/question.md?key=semester_8%2Fconstruction_management%3Aplanning-tool-choice) — Construction Management, chapter 2, asked 3×
- [Planning need, tools, bar chart limitations](https://www.bctengineer.com/question.md?key=semester_7%2Fproject_engineering%3Aplanning-necessary-tools-bar-chart-limits) — Project Engineering, chapter 3
- [Bar chart advantages and limitations](https://www.bctengineer.com/question.md?key=semester_7%2Fproject_engineering%3Abar-chart-advantages-limitations) — Project Engineering, chapter 3, asked 2×
- [Planning in dynamic environment; linked bar chart](https://www.bctengineer.com/question.md?key=semester_7%2Fproject_engineering%3Aplanning-necessary-dynamic-linked-bar) — Project Engineering, chapter 3