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Statistics, Data, Graphs, and Other Factual Support: Citing a Graph with Data

Statistics and data help back up a claim you make in a research or persuasive paper. Find more statistics in the reference section of the library.

Citing a Photo, Image, Graph, or Chart with MLA

Cite a Graph

The rules for citing a graph are the same for citing a photo, illustration, map, or diagram. Place the image in the body of the essay where it is pertinent to the subject matter, and give the citation after labeling it with "Fig." and a number. Use the numbers consecutively from 1 on.

Fig. 1. Party agree graph from:  McCready, Ryan. "5 Ways Writers Use Misleading Graphs To Manipulate You [INFOGRAPHIC]." Venngage, 9 Sep 2018. 

Continue to Use Double Spacing

The citation should be double spaced and the only difference should be the notation "Fig." and the number which should be bold with periods after the notation and number as shown here.

example of graph in essay

Using Statistics in a Paper

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