# Display Particle Size Distribution (PSD) as a bar chart
This guide explains how to display a **particle size distribution (PSD)** as a **depth‑oriented bar chart** in a GeoDin layout.
The process consists of **three main stages**:
1. Recording sample data
2. Entering particle size distribution data
3. Visualizing the data as a stacked bar chart in a layout
Each stage is required to achieve a correct and depth‑oriented visualization.
### 1. Recording the Sample Data
Before creating any visualization, the **sample data for the particle size analysis** must be entered into GeoDin.
* Open the **Data management** method.
* Create a new sample entry.
* Define:
* **Depth interval** of the sample
This step ensures that the particle size data can later be linked correctly to depth.
### 2. Recording the Particle Size Distribution
Once the sample data exists, the **particle size distribution values** must be entered.
* Open the **Measurement data** method.
* Select the measuring point type **samples (geot. borehole)**.
* Navigate to the data type **(G1) PSD.**
* Enter the particle size analysis values for the sample.
At this stage, GeoDin stores the PSD values that will later be visualized in the layout.
### 3. Depth‑Oriented Visualization in the Layout
To display the particle size distribution as a **bar chart aligned to depth**, a specific layout element is required.
#### 3.1 Creating Series for Particle Size Components
* Open the **Graphic printing and editing** option from the **Methods** column.
* Create an object frame within the new layout as mentioned [here](https://docs.geodin.com/navigating-the-geodin-workspace/user-interface) in Section 3 by selecting **Layout Overview** icon.
* Drag the **Data sequence** element into the object frame (blue box shown in the picture below) of your GeoDin layout using the corresponding tool.
* Create a new series for each particle size component using the **plus (+) button**.
{% hint style="info" %}
Each **series** represents **one component** of the particle size distribution.
{% endhint %}
* Select the particle size component for each series under **Parameter.**
* Then define the depth interval (start and end depth / recovery) of your sample.
#### 3.2 Defining Fill Patterns and Colors
To visually distinguish the particle size components, configure the fill pattern and color.
1. Navigate to the corresponding series (e.g. `PSD:CLAY`).
2. Open the **Fill pattern** branch.
3. Select:
* **Vector** option
* Appropriate fill pattern (e.g. clay fill pattern according to **GEOT1ENG**).
4. Switch to the **Colour / Transparency** branch.
5. Select:
* Desired color, or
* Default color of the selected fill pattern.
This ensures standardized and clear visual representation.
#### 3.3 Configuring the Parameter Axis
Because particle size distributions always total **100%**, the axis must be configured accordingly.
**Steps**
* Navigate to the **Axis range** branch.
* Activate **user‑defined display** of the parameter axis.
* Set the axis interval to:
* **0 to 100**
{% hint style="danger" %}
This step is essential for correct proportional representation.
{% endhint %}
#### 3.4 Stacking and Normalizing the Series
To create a proper stacked bar chart:
**Steps**
* Navigate to the **Series** branch.
* Select diagram type **Stack series**.
* Activate the option **Recalculate to 100%**.
This ensures all components together form a complete particle size distribution.
#### 3.5 Adjusting Series Order and Heading
**Series Order**
* Open the **Series definitions** branch.
* Use the **blue arrows** to change the order.
* The **lowest entry** in the list is displayed on the **left-hand side** of the bar chart.
**Diagram Heading**
* The diagram heading is defined by the **first series**.
* You can assign a **custom heading** that differs from the parameter name.
This allows better control over layout readability and labeling.
### Result
The final result is a **depth‑oriented stacked bar chart** that clearly displays the **particle size distribution** for each sample across depth.
This visualization supports:
* Clear interpretation of soil composition
* Standardized reporting
* Depth‑related geotechnical analysis
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