ClimateViz

This graph really needs labels. All I could do was make guesses as to what it represents.

The graph you're referring to is commonly known as a box plot, we don't have too many of them, so you can classify it as "other". In a box plot, the Black Lines represent the median maximum temperature for each month over the period from 1991 to 2020. The median is the middle value of the temperature data when ordered, providing a robust measure of central tendency that is less affected by outliers and extreme values than the mean. Green Bar represent the minimum and maximum temperatures observed in each month during the 30-year period.

There is no legend so I have no way to accurately describe what this chart is trying to convey, except in a very broad way.

It's indeed challenging to describe the graphic, however, there are a lot of climate graphics being created without full legends (even from reputable sources ), I'm afraid. After discussing with the team, we agree that the varying shades of colors in each bar of your graph could represent different categories of days based on sunshine hours in each month. Or you can just put a general statement, like: "The yearly average total of sunshine hours in Carfiff, Bute Park from 1971 to 2000 is 1519.44 hours."

What would the title be here? Just "Station: Coventry, Coundon"? Or would it also include "Maximum temperature, 1961-1990" (sort of like a subtitle)?

We're collecting the title as metadata so specific answers are preferred - in this case, including "Maximum temperature, 1961-1990" would be a better annotation.

How can I best describe the trends shown in a climate science graphic?

Focus on identifying significant trends, such as increases, decreases, fluctuations, or patterns over time. Use specific descriptions, like "a steady increase," "a sharp decline," or "a period of stability." Mention the time frame or other relevant contextual factors. Your goal is to convey the movement or change in the data clearly and accurately assuming the audience cannot see the graphic themselves.

How can I effectively summarize the graphic's overall message?

After describing the key elements of the graphic, synthesize this information to summarize the main conclusion or message. Focus on the "big picture" insight or trend that the graphic illustrates about climate science. Your summary should encapsulate the essential findings or implications of the graphic, based on its data and visualizations.

How should I approach describing a complex climate science graphic?

For complex graphics, break down your description into sections, covering each component part in turn. Describe each element clearly and systematically before providing an overall summary of the graphic's message. This methodical approach helps ensure that your description is both comprehensive and understandable.

What if I cannot find the title or source information?

If a title or source is not evident, check the surrounding text or context in which the graphic appears. If you still cannot identify this information, it's important to maintain the integrity of the dataset by noting "NA" for the title or source. Accuracy in documentation is key to the project's success.

What should I do when a graphic cites multiple data sources or contributions?

Include all mentioned parties, separating each with a comma, and clearly indicate the role they played, if specified (e.g., data provided by one source, graphic created by another). This ensures that the contribution of each entity is accurately represented in your description.