Scatter plot

A scatter chart visualizes relationships between two numerical variables. Each point on the chart represents an observation from the dataset, with its position determined by the values of the two variables. You can split data by a categorical field to compare how different groups distribute across the same dimensions.

Creating a scatter chart

The following examples build on each other, starting with a basic two-variable scatter and adding dimensions. Before you begin, complete the prerequisites.

Basic scatter chart

Start with a query that returns two numeric fields:

source = opensearch_dashboards_sample_data_flights | fields AvgTicketPrice, DistanceMiles

After running this query, select Scatter as the chart type. The fields are mapped as follows:

• The X-Axis displays the AvgTicketPrice field.
• The Y-Axis displays the DistanceMiles field.

The result is a scatter plot showing the relationship between ticket price and flight distance. Each point represents a single flight, as shown in the following image.

Using thresholds

To apply thresholds, enable Use threshold colors in the Scatter section. Then open the Thresholds section and add a threshold of 6000 to highlight long-distance flights, as shown in the following image.

For more information, see Thresholds.

Adding a color dimension

Add a categorical field to split the data points into color-coded groups:

source = opensearch_dashboards_sample_data_flights | fields AvgTicketPrice, DistanceMiles, DestWeather

This query returns two numeric fields: AvgTicketPrice and DistanceMiles. Select DestWeather as the Color field.

The result is a scatter plot with points split into color-coded groups—each weather condition is rendered in a distinct color, as shown in the following image.

Adding a size dimension

Add a third numeric field to control point size, creating a bubble chart:

source = opensearch_dashboards_sample_data_flights | fields AvgTicketPrice, DistanceMiles, DestWeather, FlightDelayMin

This query returns three numeric fields: AvgTicketPrice, DistanceMiles, and FlightDelayMin. Select DestWeather as the Color field and map FlightDelayMin to the Size field.

Points now vary in size—larger bubbles represent longer delays. Each color still represents a weather condition, making it possible to identify whether certain weather types correlate with both higher prices and longer delays, as shown in the following image.

Configuring a scatter chart

You can configure the following settings in the configuration panel.

Fields

In the Fields section, configure the fields displayed on each axis.

Split

In the Split by dropdown list, select a field to split the chart into separate elements by value. For more information, see Split.

Scatter

Use the following settings to customize the appearance and behavior of the scatter chart.

Thresholds

For information about configuring thresholds, see Thresholds.

Axes

The X-axis and Y-axis share the same configuration options. For more information, see Axes.

Legend

The legend summarizes the visual color encodings used in the chart.

Tooltip

Toggle the Show tooltip selector to enable or disable tooltips.