When is the appropriate time to use a pie chart?

Using a pie chart is best suited for representing parts of a whole because it visually conveys how different segments contribute to an overall total. Each slice of the pie demonstrates a percentage of the total, allowing for an immediate understanding of the relative proportions among components. This type of illustration is most effective when the number of categories is limited, as too many slices can lead to confusion and make it difficult for the viewer to interpret the information accurately.

In contexts where trends over time or changes in categorical variables are being analyzed, other types of charts, like line graphs or bar charts, would be more appropriate, as they enable viewers to observe changes and relationships clearly. Similarly, comparing different sets of data would also benefit from the clarity provided by bar graphs rather than pie charts, particularly when dealing with a larger number of categories or data sets.