A Jitter Plot is a variation of a scatter plot used to reduce over-plotting when multiple data points share similar values. By slightly spreading (jittering) data points along one axis, it becomes easier to see the distribution and density of data across categories. Jitter plots are useful for:
- Visualizing dense or overlapping data points
- Showing distribution within categories
- Identifying clusters and outliers clearly
- Improving readability compared to standard scatter plots
Creating Jitter Plot in Tableau
Tableau does not have a direct jitter plot option but it can be created using a random calculation to spread data points along one axis.
Note: For this article, a sample dataset "vgsales.csv" is used, to download click here.
Step 1: Create the Base Scatter Structure
1. Drag Genre to the Rows shelf and drag Global_Sales to the Columns shelf.
2. In the Marks card, change the mark type to Circle and drag the Year field to Detail in the Marks card.
This creates a basic scatter layout where each point represents a game’s global sales within a genre.
Step 2: Add Jitter Using a Random Calculation
1. On the Rows shelf, click next to Genre and type AVG(RANDOM()) and press Enter to apply the calculation.
2. Tableau will now slightly spread the points vertically, creating a jitter effect and reducing overlap.
Step 3: Adjust Layout and Improve Readability
1. Now go to top Toolbar, click Fit and select Entire View to increase the width of the chart.
2. Right-click on the Genre axis and uncheck Show Header to remove axis labels.
Final Output
The final Jitter Plot displays Global Sales distributed across Genres, with individual data points spread vertically to avoid overlap. This makes it easier to observe patterns, density and variations within each category.