Axis Stripes

Axis stripes allow you to highlight a range of values on the chart walls, thus drawing the user's attention to particular sections of the data. Axis stripes can also be used to highlight repeating ranges of data to increase readability.

Best Practices for Axis Stripes (bands)

  • Use stripes to highlight ranges: Apply axis stripes to indicate meaningful zones such as warning ranges, acceptable thresholds, or focus areas.
  • Keep it subtle: Use light, semi-transparent colors to keep the focus on the actual data.
  • Label clearly if needed: Add optional labels inside or near the stripe to indicate what the range represents (e.g., “Safe Zone”, “Overload”).
  • Don't overuse: Limit the number of stripes to avoid visual clutter—use them only where they help clarify the message.
  • Use interlaced axis stripes to guide reading along long axis ranges.
  • Align with tick intervals so that stripes align with the major axis ticks.
  • Use for both axes if appropriate: Axis stripes can be applied to either horizontal or vertical axes depending on the context.
  • Match chart intent: Use stripes only when they support the analytical goal—don’t add them purely for decoration.