# What is Charting?

*Development · Last updated: November 2, 2026*

It is the process of converting complex data sets or calculation results into visual graphs and maps.

## Overview

Charting is the process of creating graphs, charts, and diagrams to make raw data easier to analyze and present. It has a wide range of applications, from financial data analysis and technical indicators to astrological chart calculations. It is frequently preferred in software systems to provide instant visual feedback to the user.

***Analogy:** It is like turning a confusing spreadsheet of thousands of rows into a colorful line chart that is understandable at a single glance.*

## How it works

Raw numbers or objects pulled from data sources are processed with a specific scaling logic. With the help of drawing libraries and graphics engines, they are mapped to a coordinate system, converted into visual elements, and rendered on the screen.

## Where it is used

It is used in stock market analysis platforms, business intelligence dashboards, health tracking applications, and astrology software.

## Commonly confused with

The concept of Data Visualization refers to the general discipline of visualizing data, whereas Charting specifically focuses on the action and mechanism of drawing graphs or maps.

## Questions and answers

**Should charting operations be performed in the browser or on the server?**

Browser-side client libraries are generally preferred for user interaction and dynamic charts, but server-side rendering can also be performed for heavy statistical reports.

**What are the most popular chart types for charting?**

Line charts, bar charts, candlestick charts, and pie charts are widely used.

## Related terms

- [Diagrams](https://trescout.com/en/dictionary/diagrams/)
- [Astrological Chart Engine](https://trescout.com/en/dictionary/astrological-chart-engine/)
- [Dashboard](https://trescout.com/en/dictionary/dashboard/)
- [BI](https://trescout.com/en/dictionary/bi/)
- [User Interface](https://trescout.com/en/dictionary/user-interface/)

This explanation was written in plain language for TreScout with AI and **machine-translated** from the Turkish original · the Turkish version prevails. If something looks wrong or missing, write to [hello@trescout.com](mailto:hello@trescout.com). [Read in Turkish →](https://trescout.com/dictionary/charting/)

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Source: TreScout Dictionary · https://trescout.com/en/dictionary/charting/