Since the report's purpose is to communicate information in the most precise and meaningful way, tables and graphs may be important supplements to the narrative. To be effective, they must be well-designed and clearly executed. They should also be carefully integrated with the text of the report.

There are five basic kinds of statistical graphs, each with advantages and disadvantages. The trick is to match the proper graph to the kind of data you wish to present.

• Area Graph (Pie Chart)
• Bar Graph
• Column Graph
• Line Chart
• Surface Chart