What can smoothing the lines in a line chart help highlight?

Smoothing the lines in a line chart primarily serves to highlight data trends. When the raw data is plotted, it may contain fluctuations or noise that can obscure the underlying trend. By applying a smoothing technique—such as using a moving average or a similar statistical method—the line chart presents a clearer view of trends over time. This means that viewers can more easily identify whether a metric is generally increasing, decreasing, or remaining stable over a specified period.

The benefits of this approach are particularly evident in data sets that experience significant variability or seasonality. Smoothing helps discern the deeper patterns that might not be immediately visible within the jagged nature of the individual data points. Consequently, viewers can make more informed decisions based on the insights derived from these observable trends rather than being distracted by momentary variations or irregularities.