Step-by-Step Tutorial on Creating a Heatmap List (Most Polluted Cities)

What is a Heatmap List

A heatmap is a form of data visualization commonly used to visualize data in a structured table, where colors represent values. A heatmap is specifically beneficial when you have a large dataset and want to identify patterns, correlations, or trends within the data. 

A heatmap list combines traditional lists with a heatmap, in which each data point is assigned a color based on its significance or value. The visual nature of a Heatmap list allows the viewer to easily identify and interpret patterns and prioritize items based on their color intensity. You may use Heatmap lists in various contexts, including project management, data analysis, risk assessment, and more.

Hear is a Heatmap List about 'Most Polluted Cities Worldwide.'

Let's create a Heatmap List

First thing first, get into your profile and hit the 'New chart' button. From the template list, pick the chart you have in mind.

If you don't have an account yet, you should create one first. Watch this video to help you out with the process: How to Create a Free PlotSet Account

Upon entering the plotting area, you should do a few things. First, set a title for your project. This title helps you find your chart in the dashboard. Also, it will be displayed on the top of your chart when you intend to share it with others. 

Then, set the dimensions to a scale that you have in mind. Remember that the dimension contributes to the appearance of the visualization. You may play with the scales a bit until you reach the setting that you like. 

Now, time to insert the data! Check out the following log post: 3 Easy Ways to Insert Data while Charting with PlotSet

There are three different ways you can insert your data. The following image shows you the method by which you can upload it. When you do so, the dataset will be automatically displayed for you.

You can assign labels, values, images, and categories to your chosen columns. So, change the columns as you see fit. 

Keep in mind that you can modify the cells anytime you want.

Pick the 'Categorical' value type to refer to a type of data that represents distinct categories. Categorical values are qualitative in nature and describe different attributes or characteristics.

You can use the color intensity or shading to represent the relative importance, frequency, or any other relevant characteristic associated with each category. 

Then, choose a color palette and make sure to make it distinctive. Based on their assigned colors, you can visually highlight and compare different categories.

Time to assign a Header to your chart. A well-written Header acts as a signpost, summarizing the message behind the visualization. You can add a subtitle and note to this section if you like including more info. Finally, customize the font, size, and colors as you like.

If you wish to read more about the Header feature, read the following blog post: How to Make the Most of Your Chart’s Header

The Number Formatter enables you to customize the formatting of numerical data according to your preferences. It provides options for controlling the number display, like specifying the number of decimal places, choosing a specific currency symbol, defining separators for thousands or millions, and determining the format for percentages.

In the Grid section, you can assign the number of columns you like to be displayed in the chart. The 'Padding' is the space between the bars or the columns. You can change them according to your preferences as well.

You can opt to display the categories side by side on a single row or stack them vertically under one another in a list format. Pick 'Column' to have a list display.

To display the Legend, you need to turn it on first. Then, identify where you want to place them. The Swatches are the colored shapes besides the categories that are used to represent the colors. Finally, customize the labels.

When you are done charting, you can obtain an export in either PNG, SVG, or JPG format. You can change the dimensions here as well.

You're free to share your design with others, embed it on your website, or display it on social media. 

If you like, you can watch the tutorial video of this Heatmap on our YouTube channel: How to Create a Heatmap List (Most Polluted Cities)