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How to describe trends on graphs

A pattern on a graph can be used to make inferences (draw conclusions). Make sure the pattern of the graph are well understood before writing about them. 

Example

Trends can be described more fully by adding words and phrases such as:
 

gradually	smoothly	fluctuated	erratically
slowly	reached a peak	regularly	became constant
unevenly	leveled off	rapidly	steadily

A general statement to use as a starting point for describing trends is:

As the (FIRST VARIABLE) increased/decreased, the (SECOND VARIABLE) increased/decreased/stayed constant.

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Trends on a graph
Guidelines from BIOTA
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