How do you represent data using a stem-and-leaf plot?

To represent data using a stem-and-leaf plot, split each data value into a "stem" and a "leaf".

A stem-and-leaf plot is a way to organise data so that you can see the shape of the distribution and easily identify the median, mode, and range. To create one, you first need to split each data value into two parts: the stem and the leaf. The stem is usually the leading digit(s), and the leaf is the last digit. For example, for the number 47, the stem would be 4, and the leaf would be 7.

Start by writing down the stems in a vertical column, usually in ascending order. Next to each stem, write the corresponding leaves in ascending order. For instance, if you have the data set: 32, 34, 35, 41, 42, 43, 45, 47, 51, 53, the stems would be 3, 4, and 5. You would then write the leaves next to each stem like this:

3 | 2 4 5
4 | 1 2 3 5 7
5 | 1 3

This plot shows that the data values range from 32 to 53. You can quickly see that the 40s have the most data points, indicating a concentration of values in that range.

Stem-and-leaf plots are particularly useful for small to moderately sized data sets and help you to quickly analyse the distribution and identify any patterns or outliers. They are a handy tool for visualising data in a clear and concise manner.