A grid of cells where color stands in for value, so darker or brighter areas jump out as the high and low points without you having to read every number.
Synonyms
- heatmap
Related terms
In plain words
- the coloured grid where darker or brighter cells mean bigger numbers
Usage example
The activity heat map shades busy hours in deep red so peak times are obvious at a glance.
Don't confuse with…
- data tableA data table shows the exact figures; a heat map trades precise numbers for color so patterns pop out instantly.
Categories
- Data display