Charts / Glossary
Time series
A chart word, with the charts that use it.
Definition
A time series is values recorded at regular moments, drawn left to right. Its shape shows trends, cycles and sudden changes.
Updated Nov 2, 2026
- 01Time along the bottomEarliest on the left, now on the right.
- 02The value over timeOne point per moment, joined into a line.
Where you see it
010 · LineChange over time · AI data
011 · AreaChange over time · Crypto data
036 · CandlestickChange over time · Crypto data
Common mistakes
Uneven gaps drawn evenly
If moments are missing, the line should show the gap, not join across it.
Time running right to left
Readers expect the past on the left.
Questions
Which chart is best for a time series?
A line for one measure, an area for an amount, candlesticks for prices with a range.
How long can a time series be?
Hundreds of points; the axis labels thin out, the data does not.
Related terms
- Series
- Area
- Axis
- Cumulative
Every chart word, A to Z.
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