Analyzing data over time in a scatter plot

Using a time-series attribute for axescolor or point-size in a scatter plot enables special features for analyzing data over time. This auto-synchronizes the time source of all these variables.


Selecting a time key for scatter plot

To select a specific time-key,

  • Click the selected time point, and choose an option in the drop-down tab, or
  • Click the previous/next arrows next to the selected time point, or
  • Click on a new point on the time-key axis at the bottom of your map to jump to the selected time.

Animated scatter plot time races

Animating maps over time is an engaging storytelling tool which uses smoothly animated positions (and colors and point sizes when applicable) to gradually reveal trends for each data point.

To animate changes to the scatter plot over time using the time-series attribute(s),

  • Click on the play icon in the bottom left corner of the window.

Special Features

  • The animation automatically stops after reaching final data point.
  • You can also stop the animation by clicking the pause icon, which appears when using a time race animation.
  • To animate faster by skipping 5 time keys at each step, Shift+click on the play button.

Creating Sparkline Charts

If the color uses an attribute that changes over time, the pop-ups for each record point automatically creates a sparkline chart. This compact visualization displays changes over time for the attribute you're using as the color source.

Special Features

  • In addition to the sparkline chart, hovering over a record also highlights additional information, including the X, Y values and position along the color scale.

Connected scatter plot: Scatter trails

When using time-series data on both axes, Keshif enables scatter trails when hovering over an individual record.

Learn more.