On a line graph, the numerical value is always placed on the Y (vertical) axis, while the categories (e.g., days, months, years) are placed on the X (horizontal) axis. The chart plots the intersection of x and y numerical values into single data points. However, the way each of these charts plots data along the X and Y axes is very different.Ī scatter chart always has numerical data on both axes, with the objective of determining a relationship between the two variables. Scatter charts and line graphs are not the same! They may look very similar, especially when a scatter chart is displayed with connecting lines. Differences between scatter charts and line graphsīefore we really get into it, let’s make sure we are all on the same page.