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CMA Foundation · Fundamentals of Business Laws and Business Communication · Use of Graphics and References for Business Communication

A report uses a bar chart whose vertical axis starts at 90 instead of 0, making a small rise in profit look very large. What is the main communication problem?

The main problem is that the truncated axis distorts proportions and may mislead readers by making a small rise look large. Graphics should represent data honestly. Bar charts can show profit, and no rule forces the use of a table instead.

  1. AThe graphic may mislead readers by distorting proportionsCorrect
  2. BThe chart is invalid because bar charts cannot show profit
  3. CThe report must be rewritten as a table
  4. DThe graphic has become a primary legislation

Explanation

A truncated axis exaggerates differences between bars, so readers may form a wrong impression. Bar charts can show profit, and a table is not compulsory. The reference to legislation is irrelevant.

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