How to Create a Polar Chart

Compare categories in circular form using radial lines or areas.

How to create a Polar Chart in the Advanced Chart Builder

1

Start with the right data

Ensure your dataset includes:

• At least one categorical field (e.g., department, grade level, course name)

• One or more numeric or metric fields (e.g., enrollment count, average GPA)

2

Open the Advanced Chart Builder

Open the Advanced Chart Builder from a thread or Pin to launch the builder.

3

Open the Chart tab

Select the type of Polar Chart you need:

• Radar line: Used to display how a group or category contributes to a total metric across multiple variables using connected lines.

• Radar area: Used to display how a group or category contributes to a total metric across multiple variables using filled areas.

• Nightingale: Used to display how a group or category contributes to a total metric using radial segments sorted by value or time.

• Radial column: Used to display how a group or category contributes to a total metric over time with columns radiating outward from the center.

• Radial bar: Used to display how a group or category contributes to a total metric as curved bars extending from the center.

Review the live preview of your chart.

4

Go to the Setup tab

• Confirm your Category from the dropdown (e.g., department, program name, grade level)

• Add one or more Series (e.g., enrollment count, average GPA)

• Choose the appropriate aggregation (e.g., Sum, Average)

5

Apply Data Filters

Filter your data to reduce clutter, increase readability, and focus the chart on the story.

6

Customize the Chart (Optional)

Use the Customize tab to adjust the look of your chart:

• Add axis titles and chart labels

• Adjust colors, axis lines, labels, and tooltips

7

Save the Chart

Click Save when you’re ready to apply your changes, or Cancel to discard the changes.

Polar Chart Use Cases

Need some inspiration? Consider these examples where a Polar Chart may work well.

• Show student satisfaction across different programs, departments, or schools.

• Visualize skill mastery across subjects or standards.

Polar Chart Tips and Best Practices

• Polar Charts are usually best for comparing multiple series or metrics across a shared set of categories.

• 3 to 8 categories work best for a polar chart. More than 8 can make the chart cluttered, hard to read, and visually overwhelming — especially with overlapping lines or filled areas.

• Consider using radar area for stronger visual impact.