Better Plots

Do you want your graphs and plots to be more effective in communicating your results to others? Come learn about the principles of data storytelling with visualizations. Data Storytelling is the art of communicating your message about data to others. There are effective techniques (decluttering, annotating, and highlighting) that you can use to make your visualizations more accessible and communicative.

This is a software-agnostic workshop, focusing on essential principles that can be applied to any visualization software. Hands-on examples will be demonstrated in both R and Python.

Class information

  • Dates: Friday, October 24, 2025

  • Time: Noon - 1:30 pm PT

  • Time commitment: 1.5 hours

  • Audience: FH Staff and Faculty wanting to improve thier plots for publication.

  • Prerequisites: None

  • Followed by: None

Learning Objectives (LOs)

  • Utilize design principles to effectively present plots by decluttering and removing extraneous information

  • Utilize annotations and titles to get people to your conclusions faster

  • Utilize preattentive attributes and color to effectively highlight important information in your plots

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How often is this class taught?

    This class is offered twice a year (currently fall and spring quarters). Check the schedule to see when it will next be offered.

  • Can I work through the materials without taking the class?

    Yes, you can access the course materials on your own any time.

  • Can I get a badge without taking the class?

    You need to complete the live class to get a badge.

  • Can I take the class if I’m not an employee at Fred Hutch?

    The class is open to members of the Cancer Consortium including Fred Hutch, the University of Washington, and Seattle Children’s Hospital.

  • Can I take this class more than once?

    You can sign up more than once, but be aware that there is tyspically a waitlist. We will prioritize students who have not taken the class. If there is room you are welcome to take it again.