How to Set Up the Heatmap Display

The best heatmap layout depends on what you want to compare. A view designed to show market weight may not be the clearest view for comparing the direction of many smaller assets. Set up the display around a specific question, then keep the chosen settings consistent while comparing results.

Choose a layout that fits the task

A proportional layout makes the size of each tile meaningful. It can help show where market value or trading activity is concentrated, but small assets may be difficult to read. An equal-size or monosize layout gives every tile similar visual space, which can make colour patterns easier to compare. In that view, size-based settings may influence ordering rather than tile area, depending on the implementation.

Decide whether grouping helps

Grouping can reveal whether a movement is shared by a sector or category. It can also make the map feel crowded when the purpose is to compare individual symbols across the entire list. Use grouped views when the relationships between categories matter; use an ungrouped view when you want to scan the whole selection without category boundaries. Available grouping options vary by market and widget.

Make labels readable

Choose a label style that fits the screen. Short ticker symbols are compact and useful for experienced readers, while full names are easier for a broader audience but need more room. If logos are available, decide whether they add recognition or visual clutter. On a dense map, removing secondary labels may make the overall pattern easier to see.

Choose the values shown inside tiles

Tile text can include a price or another selected metric. Showing too many values can make small tiles unreadable, so prefer one detail that directly supports the question you are investigating. Exact values can often be checked in a tooltip or a linked instrument page rather than displayed everywhere at once.

Use a clear setup sequence

1. Select the correct market, index or asset group.
2. Choose proportional sizing or equal-size tiles according to your goal.
3. Set grouping to a useful category, or turn grouping off for a broad scan.
4. Pick a readable label option and only the essential displayed value.
5. Expand the view if the controls or labels are cramped, then confirm the legend and metrics.

Keep comparisons fair

When comparing screenshots or reviewing changes over time, note the selected market, size metric, colour metric and time period. Changing several settings at once can make it difficult to know why the visual pattern changed. For accessibility, use tooltips or exact figures alongside colour instead of relying on colour alone.

Interface options may differ by market, product and provider. This guide is educational and is not investment advice.