Graphs of Time Series – Line Graphs & Trend Representation 📈⏳

Time series show how a variable changes over time.
Graphs make these trends easy to read, interpret, and compare.

Line graphs are the MOST common tool for time series.

What Is a Time Series Graph?

Definition:

A time series graph is a line graph where time (years/months) is shown on the X-axis and the corresponding values on the Y-axis.

Used to study:

• Stock prices
• Population growth
• GDP changes
• Sales trends
• Temperature variation

Why Use Line Graphs?

✔ Show direction of change
✔ Easy to interpret
✔ Good for long-term data
✔ Identify trends and fluctuations
✔ Best for business forecasting

Components of a Time Series Line Graph 🧩

1. Time on X-axis

Years / months / quarters.

2. Values on Y-axis

Sales, prices, population.

3. Proper scale

Uniform intervals.

4. A continuous line

Points connected smoothly.

5. Title & labels

Clear and meaningful.

Types of Line Graphs

1. Single Line Graph

For one variable only.

Example:
Annual sales (₹ lakh) across 5 years.

2. Multiple Line Graphs

For comparing two or more variables.

Example:
Sales of Product A vs B over 5 years.

3. Trend Line (Secular Trend)

A smooth line representing the general direction of the data.

Methods:

• Free-hand method
• Moving average
• Least squares method

ASCII Diagram — Time Series Line Graph Flow

Time on X-axis
↓
Values on Y-axis
↓
Plot Points
↓
Connect Lines
↓
Identify Trend

Summary ✨

• Time series graphs use line graphs to represent changes over time.
• Useful for trends, forecasting, and business analysis.
• Include single, multiple, and trend lines.

Quiz Time! 🎯