The Grammar of Graphics
TLDR This article explores Leland Wilkinson's The Grammar of Graphics theory in depth, which reduces visualization design from chart-level to more fundamental graphic elements. The article first introduces the core concepts of the grammar of graphics, including its specifications (data, transform, scale, coordinate, element, guide) and the three steps of assembly and display. It then compares the implementations of ECharts and AntV G2 to illustrate the different design philosophies and their trade-offs between chart-type-based and grammar-of-graphics-based approaches. Finally, the article reflects on the current core challenge in the visualization field - design itself rather than tools - and emphasizes the importance of professional visualization design knowledge and critical thinking capabilities through specific cases like extreme value handling and class grade reports in complex scenarios.
