Color Selection Guide

Learn how to choose effective color schemes for your charts. Color selection is crucial for creating visually appealing and accessible visualizations.

Color Theory Basics

Color Harmony
  • Complementary colors
  • Analogous colors
  • Triadic colors
  • Monochromatic schemes
  • Split-complementary
Color Properties
  • Hue variations
  • Saturation levels
  • Brightness values
  • Contrast ratios
  • Opacity settings

Chart-Specific Color Guidelines

Bar and Column Charts
  • Use consistent color schemes
  • Consider gradient options
  • Maintain readability
  • Highlight key data points
  • Group related categories
Line and Area Charts
  • Distinguish multiple lines
  • Use appropriate opacity
  • Consider line thickness
  • Handle overlapping areas
  • Maintain visual hierarchy
Pie and Doughnut Charts
  • Use contrasting colors
  • Consider segment size
  • Maintain visual balance
  • Avoid too many segments
  • Use consistent intensity

Accessibility Considerations

Color Blindness
  • Use colorblind-safe palettes
  • Test with simulators
  • Include patterns/textures
  • Maintain contrast
  • Use alternative indicators
Contrast and Readability
  • Check contrast ratios
  • Consider background colors
  • Test in different sizes
  • Use clear labels
  • Avoid color-only distinctions

Color Palettes

Qualitative Palettes
  • Distinct categories
  • Equal visual weight
  • No implied order
  • Limited to 6-8 colors
  • Memorable distinctions
Sequential Palettes
  • Show intensity/magnitude
  • Use consistent progression
  • Consider data range
  • Maintain readability
  • Choose appropriate steps
Diverging Palettes
  • Show positive/negative
  • Use neutral midpoint
  • Balance extremes
  • Maintain symmetry
  • Consider cultural meanings

Best Practices

  • Use color purposefully to convey meaning
  • Maintain consistency across related charts
  • Consider your audience and context
  • Test colors in different environments
  • Document color choices for future reference
  • Use brand colors appropriately
  • Consider print vs. digital display
  • Plan for scalability
Remember that effective color selection enhances data communication while maintaining accessibility and visual appeal. Take time to test your color choices with different audiences and viewing conditions.

Need Color Advice?

If you need help with color selection or have specific questions, contact our support team at gaoming1478@gmail.com.