The data look very different when plotted on what is called a logarithmic scale. In a typical graph, values on the (vertical) y-axis are plotted linearly: 1, 2, 3, and so on, or 10, 20, 30, or the ...

A research team made up of academics from the LSE and Yale University found that logarithmic graphs used to show the curve of COVID-19 infections can confuse the public.

As a result, the logarithmic graph plotting the number of transistors per integrated circuit over time has become instantly recognizable ever since it first appeared on April 19, 1965.

On a logarithmic graph (below, right), exponential growth looks like a straight, rising line. If our efforts to slow the spread are working, you’ll see the curve rising at a more and more shallow ...