D3.js Visualisation

Overview

This skill provides guidance for creating sophisticated, interactive data visualisations using d3.js. D3.js (Data-Driven Documents) excels at binding data to DOM elements and applying data-driven transformations to create custom, publication-quality visualisations with precise control over every visual element. The techniques work across any JavaScript environment, including vanilla JavaScript, React, Vue, Svelte, and other frameworks.

When to use d3.js

Use d3.js for:

• Custom visualisations requiring unique visual encodings or layouts
• Interactive explorations with complex pan, zoom, or brush behaviours
• Network/graph visualisations (force-directed layouts, tree diagrams, hierarchies, chord diagrams)
• Geographic visualisations with custom projections
• Visualisations requiring smooth, choreographed transitions
• Publication-quality graphics with fine-grained styling control
• Novel chart types not available in standard libraries

Consider alternatives for:

• 3D visualisations - use Three.js instead

Core workflow

1. Set up d3.js

Import d3 at the top of your script:

import * as d3 from 'd3';

Or use the CDN version (7.x):

<script src="https://d3js.org/d3.v7.min.js"></script>

All modules (scales, axes, shapes, transitions, etc.) are accessible through the d3 namespace.

2. Choose the integration pattern

Pattern A: Direct DOM manipulation (recommended for most cases) Use d3 to select DOM elements and manipulate them imperatively. This works in any JavaScript environment:

function drawChart(data) {
  if (!data || data.length === 0) return;

  const svg = d3.select('#chart'); // Select by ID, class, or DOM element

  // Clear previous content
  svg.selectAll("*").remove();

  // Set up dimensions
  const width = 800;
  const height = 400;
  const margin = { top: 20, right: 30, bottom: 40, left: 50 };