Chart interpretation

Question 1

What is chart interpretation?

Answer 1

Chart interpretation = Data-driven hypothesis testing
- Take conclusions based on data
- Guide team and client towards action
- Understand exhibits you’ve never seen before

Question 2

Most common mistakes

Answer 2

• Not connecting exhibit and case
• Not fully understanding exhibit
• No guidance towards action

Question 3

Elements of a good answer

Answer 3

• Fully understanding the exhibits
• Case-related insights
• Bias towards action

Question 4

The 4-step approach to chart interpretation

Answer 4

1. Map the territory
2. Read the nuance
3. Read the data
4. Interpret the data

Question 5

Map the territory

Answer 5

• Forget the data, understand what the chart can say
• What would this chart look like for each message it could send?

Question 6

Read the nuance

Answer 6

• Read the footnotes, legends, labels, etc.
• Ask questions (consultants are not afraid to ask questions!)

Question 7

Read the data

Answer 7

• Take numerical conclusions from the data
• List the conclusions and synthesis them when possible

Question 8

Interpret the data

Answer 8

Connect insights to the case
1. Put your framework paper next to the chart paper with your drafted list of insights
2. Draw lines connecting the bullet list of insights to the framework issues that you raised

Create next steps
- What should you, your team and your client do next
Four possible paths:
- Finish that same branch of the framework
- Move on to the next branch
- Create a new branch
- Close case and move on to execute

Quantify your arguments
- E.g. instead of “A is larger than B” you say “A is 30% larger than B”
- “B grows a lot more” → “B grows twice as much” or “B will reach A in x years”

Question 9

How to practice

Answer 9

• Have a great framework at hand
• Get good before you get fast
• Enjoy: you’ll be laughing in excitement once you get a chart interpretation question