Proper formatting of charts and graphs is essential, as they are one othe main ways that informationn is conveyed in analytical chemistry. It is essential that as much information is presented as clearly as possible on the graph, so that viewer can get the information she requires as quickly as possible.
Below is the correctly labelled plot of a calibration curve of fluorescense data at various concentrations. You can also print the graph with all the item descriptions for easy reference.
Important Notes - READ THIS
- Ensure that axes are properly labeled, with units specified, even if there are no units (AU=arbitraty units)
- Do not connect the points on the graph with a line; draw a best-fit line through the data set.
- The independent variable (the variable you manipulate) should always be on the X-axis and the dependent variable (the read out from the instrument) should be on the Y-axis.
- Include a descriptive title that explains what kind of plot it is, the technique that was used, which substance was measured, and what instrument was used to measure it.
- IMPORTANT: Titles should not include (or be) "Plot of...", "Graph of...", or "...over a range of data points." - Be concise, but complete.
- Do not plot too many data sets on a single graph - make multiple graphs if required.