Histogram

A histogram shows how numeric values are distributed. It helps reveal frequency, spread, central tendency, skewness, and multimodal patterns.

Prepare a directly mappable table

Histograms require a numeric value column with enough observations to estimate a distribution. The data can be strength, particle size, lifetime, intensity, or another continuous measurement.

Use one numeric column. If you want to compare groups, prepare an optional group column for overlay or separate displays when supported.

Practice data · illustrates column structure
measurementgroup
12.1A
12.8A
13.4A
14.2B
15.1B
16.0B
16.8B

Create a histogram

After preparing your data, click the top Plot button, open Statistical Plot, and choose Histogram. SmartPlot opens the Create Figure dialog.

Step 1

Choose range and output

Confirm the data range, then choose a new figure or add the plot to an existing figure.

Histogram setupInterface preview · non-interactive
MenuPlot → Histogram
Data range

Full table: 7 rows, 2 columns

Output

New figure

Add to existing figure

Histogram setupInterface preview · non-interactive
Value column
measurement · Y
Group column
group · Group
Step 2

Map continuous values

Map Value column, Group column in order, making sure each selected column has the intended table role.

Step 3

Set bins and normalization

Set Normalization, Binning, Bin count for the table structure and confirm that the choices match the intended reading.

Histogram setupInterface preview · non-interactive
Normalization
CountDensity
Binning
Automatic
Bin count
10
Histogram setupInterface preview · non-interactive
Show density curve
Use shared bins across groups
Data tableContinuous-variable practice data
Mapped columns2
Step 4

Review and create

Check Show density curve, Use shared bins across groups, review the mapped-column count, then choose Create figure.

Settings and pre-export checks

  • Value columns
  • Group column
  • Bin count
  • Show density
  • Fill color
  • Axis and legend styling
  • The bin count strongly affects the visual interpretation.
  • Too few bins can hide structure; too many bins can exaggerate noise.
  • Histograms need enough data points to be meaningful.
  • Use transparent fills or separate views when comparing multiple groups.
  • For small grouped datasets, a box plot may be easier to read.
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