> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://vikram-bajaj.gitbook.io/cs-gy-6313-information-visualization/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://vikram-bajaj.gitbook.io/cs-gy-6313-information-visualization/exploring-data.md). # Exploring Data ## Telling Stories with Data Based on the video: When we create a visualization, we are not telling a story; we are just making a point. A story needs to have **emotion** and a **meaningful climax**. The climax need not even be fully comprehensible, but it is vital to a story. 7 types of stories (according to the book 'The Seven Basic Plots' by Christopher Booker): * Overcoming the Monster * Rebirth * Rags to Riches * Voyage and Return * Comedy * Tragedy * The Quest ### Story Structure Types * **The Hero's Journey** (Joseph Campbell) ![](/files/-M5-0V3Qs8qvQXGFjW4C) * **Kurt Vonnegut's Story Structure** ![](/files/-M5-0V3S3T_yWuAAnRaV) * **Freytag's Pyramid** This is usually used to show the structure of a dramatic work, sich as a play or film, but isn't suited for storytelling through data. This is because 'Falling Action' and 'Resolution' do not make sense in the context of data. ![](/files/-M5-0V3UQaXY3lidV9M9) ### Annotation, Narration and Story These are three terms that must not be used interchangeably. **Annotation** is when labels are added to visualizations to help the viewer better comprehend the visualization. A **narration** guides the viewer through a visualization or a series of visualizations. A **story** builds on top of a narrative and has emotions and a meaningful climax. ![](/files/-M5-0V3WxoSTQlfYXi5D) ### Repetition, Pictures and Story Derived from **Repetition** of key aspects transfers the concepts from short-term memory to long-term memory in the minds of the viewers. **Pictures** provide visual impact and aid visual memory: people remeber not just what they heard, but also what they saw. The **story** is the most important part, it conveys a message, makes the viewer feel emotions and has a meaningful climax.