# Gridline

> A chart word, with the charts that use it.

**Definition.** A gridline is a faint line across the plot at each tick, so values read without a ruler. It sits behind the marks and never competes with them.

Updated Nov 2, 2026

## 010 · Line

- **01 A gridline.** A faint line at each value tick.
- **02 The marks in front.** The data stays on top of the grid.

## Where you see it

- [001 · Bars](https://usechartory.com/charts/bars): Compare items · Fintech data
- [010 · Line](https://usechartory.com/charts/line): Change over time · AI data

## Common mistakes

- **Gridlines as strong as the data** Heavy grids hide the marks. Keep them faint.
- **A gridline at every tiny step** A few round values are enough.

## Questions

### Does every chart need gridlines?

No. Charts that label each mark can drop them.

### Should the zero line look different?

Yes, on diverging charts: draw it stronger than the grid.

## Related terms

- [Tick](https://usechartory.com/glossary/tick): A small mark on an axis at a round value, with its label.
- [Axis](https://usechartory.com/glossary/axis): The scale along the edge of a plot that gives marks their value.
- [Baseline](https://usechartory.com/glossary/baseline): The zero or reference line that bars grow from.

## Bars, line and the other types.

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Every chart word, A to Z. [Open the glossary](https://usechartory.com/glossary)