Add Axis
Learn how to add axes to your DataPicta visualizations.
The Add an Axis or Coordinate System Dialog
Axis types are added automatically based on the chosen picta type. For instance, a bar chart will have horizontal and vertical axes, while a radar chart will have radial and angular axes. So you typically don't need to add axes manually. But in some cases you do, for instance, when you want to plot a bar chart on a polar (radial) coordinate system.
When you do need to add or configure an axis:
- Click the Axes title in the right sidebar (it has an axis icon that becomes a + on hover).
- A dialog opens showing the available axis types and coordinate systems you can add.
- Select the item you need — the dialog closes, and a new panel is added to the sidebar.
Axis Types
There are four axis types available:
| Axis Type | Coordinate System | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Horizontal | Cartesian | The familiar X axis for standard bar, line, and scatter charts |
| Vertical | Cartesian | The familiar Y axis for standard bar, line, and scatter charts |
| Radius | Polar | Extends outward from the center of a circular chart |
| Angle | Polar | Runs around the circumference of a circular chart |
The horizontal and vertical axes belong to the Cartesian coordinate system. The radius and angle axes belong to the polar coordinate system.
Coordinate Systems
The same dialog also lets you add a coordinate system directly. Note that the Cartesian coordinate system is not listed — it is the default and is used automatically until you choose a different system. Once you choose a different coordinate system, the Cartesian is no longer used.
| Coordinate System | Description |
|---|---|
| Polar | A circular coordinate system for pie charts, radial bar charts, or any circular layout. Works together with the radius and angle axes. |
| Radar | A spider or web coordinate system for radar charts that compare multiple dimensions (indicators) radiating from a central point. |
Both coordinate systems are added automatically based on the chosen picta type. For instance, a radar chart will have a radar coordinate system, while a pie chart will have a polar coordinate system. So you typically don't need to add coordinate systems manually.
For the settings available for each coordinate system, see the Coordinate System Settings section in Axis Settings.