Graph Layout Algorithm Gallery
About This MicroSim
Classify graph layout algorithms by examining examples and identifying appropriate use cases.
Learning Objectives
- Identify five major graph layout algorithms
- Classify when each layout is most appropriate
- Understand how layout affects perception of graph data
How to Use
- Browse Gallery: View all five layouts at once
- Click to Expand: See larger examples with descriptions
- Compare: Note how the same data looks different in each layout
- Use Bottom Buttons: Quick-switch between layouts
Layout Algorithms
| Algorithm | Best For |
|---|---|
| Force-Directed | General exploration, clustering |
| Hierarchical | Org charts, taxonomies, trees |
| Circular | Comparing connection density |
| Radial | Ego networks, influence spread |
| Grid | Game boards, matrices |
Lesson Plan
Grade Level: Undergraduate Duration: 15-20 minutes Bloom's Level: Understand (L2)
Activities
- Exploration (5 min): View each layout
- Classification (5 min): Match layouts to use cases
- Analysis (10 min): Given a dataset, which layout would you choose?
Assessment
Students demonstrate mastery by:
- Explaining why hierarchical layout suits org charts
- Describing advantages of force-directed for unknown structure
- Choosing appropriate layouts for sample datasets