A stem and leaf plot uses columns to display a summary of discrete numerical data while maintaining the individual data points. A stem-and-leaf plot displays data to show its shape and distribution.
– The data are organized from least to greatest.
– Each value is separated into a stem and a leaf (e.g., two-digit numbers are separated into stems (tens) and leaves (ones)).
– The stems are listed vertically from least to greatest with a line to their right. The leaves are listed horizontally, also from least to greatest, and can be separated by spaces or commas. Every value is recorded, regardless of the number of repeats. No stem can be skipped. For example, in the stem and leaf plot above, there are no data for the stem 5; 5 should be listed showing no leaves.
– A key is included to explain how to read the plot.