# Mark

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

**Definition.** A mark is one drawn shape that stands for one data point: a bar, a dot or a slice. Every chart is made of marks placed by its encodings.

Updated Nov 2, 2026

## 034 · Scatter

- **01 One mark.** One dot is one token.
- **02 Its position.** Return and volatility place the dot.

## Where you see it

- [001 · Bars](https://usechartory.com/charts/bars): Compare items · Fintech data
- [034 · Scatter](https://usechartory.com/charts/scatter): Relationship · Crypto data
- [017 · Donut](https://usechartory.com/charts/donut): Part of a whole · SaaS data

## Common mistakes

- **Marks that hide each other** Overlapping dots hide data. Use see-through dots or a hex grid.
- **Decoration as marks** Shapes that carry no data read as if they did.

## Questions

### Is a line one mark?

Yes: a line joins many points into one mark for one series.

### What makes a mark readable?

A clear shape, enough contrast and, where it matters, a label.

## Related terms

- [Encoding](https://usechartory.com/glossary/encoding): The visual property that carries a value: length, position, angle, area or colour.
- [Series](https://usechartory.com/glossary/series): One set of values drawn together, such as one line or one colour of bars.
- [Bubble](https://usechartory.com/glossary/bubble): A circle whose area carries a value.

## Bars, scatter, donut and the other types.

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