# Rule 7: Graphical integrity

## Intent

Ensure the visual encoding tells the truth about the underlying values.

## Pass signals

- Bars start at zero when bar length encodes magnitude
- Scales are consistent and honest
- Aspect ratio does not distort interpretation
- Encodings match the data faithfully

## Fail signals

- Truncated bar baselines that exaggerate differences
- Broken axes without clear disclosure
- Distorted area or volume encodings
- Inconsistent scales across panels that invite false comparison

## Reviewer guidance

If integrity is in doubt, prioritize fixing it before any stylistic cleanup. A visually attractive but misleading chart should still fail.
