Data visualization is crucial in analytics because it helps in presenting complex data in a clear, understandable manner, enabling easier interpretation and decision-making. Visualizations allow analysts and stakeholders to identify patterns, trends, and outliers that might not be apparent from raw data alone. Popular tools for creating meaningful visualizations include Tableau, Power BI, and Google Data Studio, which offer a wide range of visualization options and interactive features. Techniques such as bar charts, line graphs, scatter plots, and heatmaps are commonly used to represent different types of data effectively, while color coding, labeling, and annotations help enhance clarity and insight. Moreover, storytelling with data has become increasingly popular, where visualizations are used to narrate a compelling story supported by evidence and analysis.