Pie Charts Notes | Study Integrated Reasoning for GMAT - GMAT

- You will get an understanding of what are Pie Charts and a first-hand view of how data is presented through its organisation in the form of Pie charts.

- You will get an understanding of typical data which can be represented through Pie charts. Also, understand the concept of how the distribution of a whole is done in the form of Pie Charts.

- You will get a first hand feel of the typical question types that are asked on the basis of Pie charts.

- Practice exercise on Pie charts containing simulated examination questions

Pie charts are specific types of data presentation where the data is represented in the form of a circle. In a pie chart, a circle is divided into various sections or segments such that each sector or segment represents a certain proportion or percentage of the total. In such a diagram, the total of all the given items is equated to 360 degrees and the degrees of angles, representing different items, are calculated proportionately. The entire diagram looks like a pie and its components resemble slices cut from a pie. The pie chart is used to show the break-up of one continuous variable into its component parts.

There are two approaches to constructing a pie chart from any given data:

The central angle in a circle represents 360°, so any part or segment in a pie chart is calculated as a proportion of 360°.

In this case, any part or segment in a pie chart is calculated as a part of 100%. 

Conversion of degree approach to percentage approach:

If we convert the same pie chart into the degree format, we will be required to do the following conversions:
Total = 100%
Hence, 1% = 3.6°
Central = 10% = 36°
North = 20% = 72°
South = 25% = 90°
East = 15% = 54°
West =30% = 108°

Significance of Pie Charts

The pie chart has gained prominence due to the following reasons:

- In a pie chart, we get a clear picture of the contribution of different sectors to the build up of the total. E.g., presentation of budgets.

- Comparing two pie charts is easier than comparing two bar charts or any other format of data representation.

Example:

Following is the cost analysis of a book “Guide to Digital Marketing”.

What is the central angle showing the cost of paper?
(a) 42.8°
(b) 32.6°
(c) 36.8°
(d) 57.6°
Sol: Percentage of paper cost in total cost - 16%
We know that the sum of angles in pie chart is 100°
Hence, Required Angle = (16/100 × 360) = 57.6° 

Practice Question: