How do I make a dot plot from my data?
Choose a local CSV, Excel, JSON or Parquet file, or paste CSV with a header row. Choose the fields in the controls to draw and edit your chart; xmetric processes the data in this browser.
No data loaded. Choose your own file or try the sample.
What does a dot plot show?
This dot plot compares category aggregates using point positions on a numeric axis.
Definition source: Dot plot reference. xmetric uses its own native chart engine.
What does the dot plot sample show?
With Category and SUM(Value), the sample places North at 47 and South at 70. This tool does not stack one dot for every repeated observation.
Source: the illustrative input rows below, also supplied by Try sample data. This is an example, not a result from your file.
| Period | Category | Value | Other | Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | North | 12 | 8 | 3 |
| 2 | South | 18 | 13 | 6 |
| 3 | North | 15 | 17 | 4 |
| 4 | South | 24 | 21 | 9 |
| 5 | North | 20 | 19 | 5 |
| 6 | South | 28 | 30 | 8 |
When should I choose a dot plot instead of a bar chart?
Use bars for the same category totals when bar length makes comparison easier.
| Chart | Use it for |
|---|---|
| Dot plot | This dot plot compares category aggregates using point positions on a numeric axis. |
| Bar chart | Use bars for the same category totals when bar length makes comparison easier. |
What limits apply to my data?
These limits apply to tabular imports, not native Power BI or Tableau report compatibility. File size and browser memory limit what xmetric can open. Group large datasets before drawing a chart.
| Limit | Current behavior |
|---|---|
| File size | 32 MiB on constrained devices; 160 MiB otherwise |
| Imported rows | Up to 3,500,000 |
| Chart marks | Up to 10,000 |
| Download | SVG chart |
Source: xmetric limits and verification record, checked 2026-10-27. These are product limits, not file-format limits.
Can I chart a CSV without uploading my data?
Yes. xmetric reads the selected file or pasted CSV in your browser. Opening and editing this local chart does not upload the file.
Which columns does this dot plot need?
Compare category totals with dots on a numeric axis. Start with Category and Value. Choose the additional series, target or date fields when the controls request them.
Can I export the chart and keep editing it?
Yes. Download SVG for a static chart, or choose Continue editing in xmetric to carry the data and selected chart into the app. Check the chart before sharing it.