Similarity matrix

http://iv.slis.indiana.edu/sw/simvis.html

The Similarity matrix displays data showing the similarity between two variables. We are able to identify the similarities in the matrix by the varying colors used in the matrix. The above matrix shows similarities between image text description for a software..

Correlation matrix

http://depthofprocessing.blogspot.com/2011_05_01_archive.html

A Correlation matrix displays the correlation between the different varieties of variables. When the same variables are compared in the matrix the value/coefficient is always one. In the correlation matrix above there are eight different variables shown and eight correlation coefficients. 

Star plots

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radar_chart

In a star plot there can be multiple variables being compared. A star is formed when the lines from the variables connect creating a star shape. The above is an example of a star plot used by NASA to compare different design results. They are testing each design for accuracy, collision, time, mass, link defection, trajectory completion, and actuator saturation. The center of the star plot represents the most desired results, which in this case is the MER IDD and is represented by the red line. 

Stem and Leaf plot

http://www.eduplace.com/math/mhm/5/06a/

A Stem and Leaf plot is a statistical plot that displays quantitative data. For the stem and leaf plot above it shows the ages of people at a family reunion. The data for this stem and leaf plot was split into a left column, stem, and a right column, leaf. For these types of plots there is always one stem and can be multiple and repeating leafs. An example of what the numbers look like before they are divided into a stem and leaf plot are 32, 45, and 81.

Box plot

http://www.itl.nist.gov/div898/handbook/eda/section3/boxplot.htm

A box plot graph shows numerical data for different variables on an x and y axis. The lines extending outside of the upper and lower part of the box plot are called whiskers and they represent variability outside of the box plot. In the box plot above the x axis represents the comparison of four machines for energy output and the y axis represents the energy response. From the information provided above machine three has the highest energy response, machine two the second, machine one the third highest and machine four has the least energy response. 

Histogram

http://www.webquest.hawaii.edu/kahihi/mathdictionary/H/histogram.php

A histogram is represented by a bar graph and can display one or more variables on a graph, these graphs are also known as frequency distribution graphs. These types of graphs shows the distribution of continuous data which is represented on an x and y axis, also the bars should always be next to each other when displaying the information. In the histogram above a single variable is represented, the scores on the final exam and the y axis represents the number of students which ranges from 0-50 and the x axis represents the score on final exam which ranges from 0-100. This graph also uses different colors to represent the different scores which I found made it easier to read.

Parallel coordinate graph

http://usagainstthemachines.com/senior-thesis/

A Parallel coordinate graph represents two or more variables. The above displays information on an x and y axis. The y axis represents greenhouse gas global warming potential from lowest, represented using red lines, and highest, represented using purple lines. The x axis displays 6 different software implementation versions and each are separated by a black line that runs vertical through the graph.  I find these types of graphs to be difficult and hard to read.

Triangular plot

http://www.ext.colostate.edu/mg/Gardennotes/214.html

A triangular plot represents three variables. In the triangular plot above the three variables that are being represented are clay, silt, and sand. The numbers that run along the triangle represent the percentage for each variable. In the example above it shows that a sandy loam has 10% clay, 60% sand, and 30% silt. 

Windrose

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wind_rose

A windrose is a graph tool that is commonly used by meteorologist to graph wind speed, and its direction for a specific location. The windrose measures the frequency of wind blowing from a certain direction over time. Each spoke that is represented above displays the wind speed for LaGuardia Airport in 2008. This graph shows the wind direction that had the greatest frequency was the Southern direction.

Climograph

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Climograph

A climograph is a graphical representation of precipitation and climate temperatures for a certain area. These graphs are easy to read since they display only two types of information for one specific area. In the above climograph it is displaying the temperature and precipitation in a 12 month period for Calcutta. If someone wanted to go back to a specific year and month to look at the temperature they would be able to easily do this. It is easy to read and understand these types of graphs, the above shows that participation is represented by the green bars and temperature is represented using the red line.

Population Profile

http://www.ifad.org/operations/regional/pf/aids_1.htm

A Population Profile shows two variables, men and women on a bar chart that displays them as a function for their age group. The x axis represents the population and the y axis represents the age in years for this map. This map is measuring the males and females with and without AIDS.

Scatterplot

http://www.netmba.com/statistics/plot/scatter/

A scatter plot uses two variables for a set of data. Each point represents the two variables, one from the x axis and the other from the y axis. The scatter plot can show correlations between the two variables. The two variables in the scatter plot shown above are response variables and explanatory variables. 

Index value plot

http://www.justdata.com.au/Journals/Articles/trin.htm

An Index value plot measures the index value between one or more variables. These types of maps are commonly used in the stock market. The above graph shows one variable being measured, Raw ARMS Index for 2004.

Accumulative line graph or Lorenz curve

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lorenz_curve

Accumulative line graph or Lorenz Curve shows the degree of inequality between two variables (A & B). These types of lines graphs are often used to represent income distribution between the two variables. The above Lorenz curve shows the distribution amongst people with the lowest to highest incomes. 

Bilateral graph

http://www.gallup.com/poll/106858/chinas-leadership-better-regarded-outside-west.aspx

Bilateral graphs display two or more sets of data on a single graph and can be represented as line or bar graph. The above graph displays three different sets of data, approve, disapprove and don't know/refused. The information is determining whether people approve or disapprove of the job performance of the leadership of china. 

Nominal area choropleth map

http://politicalmaps.org/2008-house-of-representatives-election-maps/

Nominal area choropleth maps use nominal data, which means that colors or symbols may be used to differentiate a phenomenon in either a certain area or region. The above map displays nominal data by using different colors and shades to represent the leads and wins for the Democratic and Republican Parties in each state. 

Unstandardized choropleth map

http://www.geog.ucsb.edu/~jeff/gis/choropleth_maps.html

An unstandardized choropleth map uses data with raw sets of numbers. Different colors are used to differentiate between the numbers used in the map. The above is an example of an unstandardized choropleth map; four different types of crimes reported in the US for 2003 are shown by using different colors to represent a set of raw numbers that represent people who committed the crime. 

Standardized choropleth map

http://www.directionsmag.com/articles/choropleth-mapping-with-exploratory-data-analysis/123579

Standardized choropleth maps show areally averaged data that is represented within one area or unit of the map. A common use for these types of maps is to show population per square mile. The above map is an example of this showing the population density per square mile.

Univariate choropleth map

http://www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2007/oct/07_0091.htm

A univariate choropleth map displays data for only one variable. To differentiate between the categories different shades of the same color are used. The above map represents the percentage of individuals living in poverty by county for 2000. 

Bivariate choropleth map

http://www.geo.unizh.ch/~annal/Choropleth%20maps.html

A Bivariate choropleth map uses 2 variables to display information on one map. To differentiate between the 2 variables symbols or colors can be used to show the different relationships of phenomenon in the map. The above map shows 2 variables of information being displayed in the map using colors. The blue shades represent the percentage of rural populations and the red colors represent percentage of population under the age of 18. The map then takes the separate information and places it into a larger map where you can see how the two phenomenons differentiate.

Unclassed choropleth map

http://www.springerimages.com/Images/RSS/5-10.1186_1476-072X-8-43-2

Unclassed choropleth maps differ from classed choropleth maps because there are no set intervals and they are characterized by color intensity. Different color shades are used to represent different values on the map. Depending on how many values there are in the map will determine how easy or difficult it is to read or understand. Too many values, the colors will start to blend and make it hard to differentiate.

Classed choropleth maps

http://my.ilstu.edu/~jrcarter/Geo204/Choro/Tom/

A classed choropleth map differs from an unclassed choropleth map by combining areal units into a smaller number of groups.  Interval levels may vary, but typically 4 to 7 are used in a map. There is different classification techniques used to divide up the intervals. An example of the different classification techniques used is equal steps, quantities, natural breaks, and minimum variance. The above map shows the percentage of Hispanics per county in Florida and uses 5 natural breaks. 

Range graded proportional circle map

https://www.e-education.psu.edu/geog486/book/export/html/1796

A Range Graded Proportional Circle Map is a proportional circle map that uses circles in relation to the different range of data. For these maps each circle size represents a set of numbers that has a different range of values. The above map shows motor vehicle deaths in different areas.

Continuously variable proportional circle map

https://www.e-education.psu.edu/geog486/book/export/html/1796

A continuously variable proportional circle map is a variation of a proportional circle map. How a continuously variable proportional circle map differs from a proportional circle map is that multiple variables are being represented. In the example above it shows the different types of meat that was sent to Paris butcheries from different regions in France. 

DOQQ

http://www.geology.enr.state.nc.us/doqq.html

DOQQ refers to Digital Orthographic Quarter-Quads and are produced by the USGS. These types of maps combine image characteristics that were taken from an aerial photograph. The DOQQ is an aerial photo that has been taken and orthorectified, a technique that removes distortion out of the aerial photo so that it can be used as a flat map. The DOQQ image above shows part of a Farmville in North Carolina.

DEM

http://vro.dpi.vic.gov.au/dpi/vro/vrosite.nsf/pages/digital_elevation_models

DEM refers to digital elevation models. The DEM is a digital image that consists of terrain elevation data and is represented in either a 3-D image or a digital model of the Earth’s surface. The images may be colorized to bring out relief of the surface. The above is an image using DEM to show the difference in elevation across the Earth surface.

DLG

http://web.wt.net/daba/dlg/default.html

DLG stands for digital line graph and is represented through digital vector form. These types of graphs can be used to display a variety of information such as roads, boundaries and utility lines. The above DLG displays important culture data for lakes and streams.

DRG

http://egsc.usgs.gov/isb/pubs/factsheets/fs08801.html

DRG stands for Digital Raster Graphics and is a scanned georectified U.S. Geological Survey topographic map. These types of maps are offered to the public and provide the same information as a paper map. This DRG image shows a river running through the district of Colombia.

LIDAR

https://www.saic.com/geospatial/modeling/lidar-urban-modeling.html

LIDAR refers to light detection and ranging. It is another form of remote sensing that uses a laser to pick up images of both natural and manmade structures. The above is a photo using a LIDAR image by SAIC, an urban modeling system. With the LIDAR image they are able to plan upcoming projects and mission planning for emergency response. 

Black & white aerial photo

http://isaacalongi.com/kansas-city-aerial-photography/

Black and white aerial photos are a form of remote sensing that is taken from a satellite, airplane, or space. The image that is being captured takes place in the biosphere, atmosphere, and lithosphere. In the image above a black and white photo is taken of Kansas. 

Infrared aerial photo

http://www.stocktoninfrared.com/aerial-infrared-roof-moisture-surveys/

Infrared aerial photos are a remote sensing technique that takes an image using a satellite, airplane, or something from above. Infrared emulsions differ from black and white emulsions because it is sensitive to wavelengths that fall outside the range of human vision. IR imagery uses false color and is able to track temperatures to monitor certain issues or conditions. In the example above the infrared aerial photo shows moisture levels on roof tops. This can be useful for detecting future water damage and safety hazards on homes. 

Cartographic animations

https://wikispaces.psu.edu/display/RemSens597K/G

Cartographic animation mapping is created through computers or video. This type of mapping is used for displaying change over time. The above image shows the changing imagery of Hurricane Katrina as it moves towards inland. This is a useful visualization so that we get a general idea of how bug the storm is, whether it is still developing or diminishing before it hits land.

Statistical maps

http://www3.uakron.edu/src/DataServ/Abstract/

Statistical maps are used to convey a variation in quantity. These maps can be used for rainfall, population, or for the map above, workers who commute to work by private car and drive alone. The information is represented by providing the number or value that it represents. 

Cartograms

http://amphibiaweb.org/amphibian/cartograms/

Cartogram maps distort space in order to convey information of an alternative variable. These types of maps turn thematic mapping variables such as population or travel time into a value for land distance or area. Distance and area are the two main types of cartograms. The above map shows the percentages of threatened and endangered species by country. The different shades of red are used to represent different percentage ranges. 

Flow maps

http://your.kingcounty.gov/airport/pilots/fly_quiet.stm

Flow maps are used to convey the flow path across a surface and the intensity of the flow. These maps will show the general direction and not the actual path. Flow maps can be used for traffic flow, social network, exchange of goods and services between locations, and in this case migration flow. In the map above the red indicates the south flow and the blue indicates the north flow and the yellow surrounding the flow represents noise sensitive areas. 

Isoline maps

http://giscommons.org/output/

Isoline maps are lines that connect points of equal value. They can be used on graphs, charts, and other maps that want to show areas that have equal value. In the isoline map above it is connecting areas in the United States that have equal value. The lines can be used to connect equal value of rainfall, air pressure, or temperature. 

Proportional circle map

http://personal.frostburg.edu/krtopping0/maps.htm

Unlike dot maps, Proportional circle maps are made with a circle. The different sizes of the circles are used to measure variable not necessarily the area over which is being measured. These maps can be useful when needed to show large amounts of data in different areas. The above map shows the number of people killed in road accidents in Europe for the year 2000.

Choropleth Map

http://www.cartozine.com/2012/05/05/unemployment-choropleth-map/

Choropleth maps are maps that that portray areal data. The areal data is divided into boundaries for states and/or countries. Areally averaged information for choropleth maps is done by using either density per square mile or percentages on a scale of 0-100. In the choropleth map above is it showing unemployment rates in the country for each state. They are using percentages and each shade of blue represents a different percentage range of unemployment. This map could be beneficial for someone looking to move and is concered about finding a job.

Dot Distribution Map

http://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/standard/geography/population/distribution_density/revision/1/

In dot distribution maps, each dot represents a certain number. In the dot map above each dot equals 100,000 people living in a certain area. Dot maps visibly show the scatter of phenomenon based on what is being represented. It can be differentiated by the different shapes of the dots or colors used to represent the themes, in this example the dots are blue. Examples of information that dot maps can convey are township population, population of a state, or health issues. 

Doppler Radar

http://www.noaanews.noaa.gov/stories2004/s2311.htm

The Doppler Radar uses the Doppler effect to measure velocity at a distance using microwave signals for a specific location. It is commonly used to make atmospheric profiles of clouds, which it does by using the microwave signals. Doppler radar is able to keep track of the change in movement of clouds, and precipitation which makes it useful to track storms. The above shows the Doppler tracking a storm over a certain area.

Isopleths

http://www.erh.noaa.gov/er/buf/lakeffect/lake0001/c/stormc.html

Isopleths maps are contour lines that show a phenomenon in specific areas. These maps convey information by connecting points of equal ratio. The above shows total water from a storm throughout different areas. 

Isopach

http://www.geo.utexas.edu/faculty/barker/kempter/rbtephra.html

Isopach maps use contour lines to represent thickness over a specific area. The above is an example of an eruption of the Rio Blanco tephra. The tephra is an airfall deposit that ranges in thickness. This map  uses a symbol,  + , to indicate where the airfall is the thickness over the specific area.

Isohyets

http://www.info.bw/~mettest/bulletins/data/bulletin_0210/bulletin_0210.html

Isohyets are lines that connect equal amount of rainfall in different regions. In the above example it shows three different regions and the blue line is used to connect the regions that are experiencing the same amount of rainfall for the given period. 

Isotachs

http://www4.ncsu.edu/~nwsfo/storage/cases/20030123/

Isotachs are lines that connect equal wind speed. The above shows lines that were drawn onto a map to show where the wind speed is the same.

Isobars

http://www.weatheronline.co.uk/reports/wxfacts/Isobars-on-surface-maps.htm

Isobars are lines that are drawn on weather maps that connect equal lines of pressure.In the example above you can see a red line that connects pressures at 1020 and indicates it at high. There is another line that connects 1010 and is represented using a blue line to indicate low pressure. This maps it easy for someone to look at and easily read the high and low pressures that are connected using lines.

Propaganda Map

http://historum.com/general-history/9905-propaganda-maps-3.html

A propaganda map is a map that uses art or images to persuade or get a point across to an audience. These maps are false and used primarily for persuasion. Propaganda maps were commonly used during war to show political issues. These types of maps have the tendency to be racial, political and/or glorifying an area. The above shows a propaganda map referring to the world according to the USA.

Hypsometric Maps

http://www.earthexplorer.com/2009-03/Subsurface_Geology_Challenges_Goiania_Metro.asp

Hypsometric maps are three dimensional surface maps. These maps are used to show different elevations of the earth by using color, shading, tinting, and contouring. In the map above it shows raised relief by displaying the different elevation starting from sea level. The dark blue shows the depth of the ocean and the contrast of light blue shows the elevation rising. The same goes for the shading of the greens and browns. By looking at this map you are able to recognize the ocean, land, and mountain that are being represented in this hypsometric map. 

PLSS maps

http://geology.isu.edu/geostac/Field_Exercise/topomaps/plss.htm

The PLLS divides domains that are owned by the Federal Government. The PLLS divides the land up in 6-mile square townships that go north, south, east , and west which run along the meridian and baseline. The baseline indicates north and south whereas the median indicates east and west.

Cadastral Map

http://kehilalinks.jewishgen.org/brody/sherins_cadastral_map1.2.html

A cadastral map is a map that is used to show real property of a country. In these maps one can show ownership of land by metes and bounds. These maps are important for public records to show ownership of that specific property. The above cadastral map shows the boundaries of a neighborhood. This could come in handy if someone wanted to add a fence to their property. They would be able to refer to public records to see the exact coordinates of property they own so they know where to place the fence. 

Thematic Maps

http://www.gigawiz.com/thematic.html

A thematic map will focus on spatial distributions of phenomenon for a theme that will show results for different locations. An example of different themes that these maps can convey are political, racial, population, health concerns such as AIDS or HCV, age groups and rainfall. These maps will always include specific information so that they are easy to read and follow. In the thematic map above it shows the United States and each state boundary that favors the Republican or Democratic Party. This particular map is easy to identify, the two colors used to label between the political parties and the areas that favor a particular party over the other are easy to identify and see. Whatever the theme may be it will use different colors to represent the theme and also visible boundaries to show specific information for that area.