Waterfall chart
Also called: waterfall, bridge waterfall
ELI5
A chart that explains how one number changes into another.
Used in conversation
“Use a waterfall chart to reconcile last year's profit with this year's.”
Definition
A chart showing how sequential positive and negative changes move a starting value to an ending value.
Here “Waterfall chart” means: A chart showing how sequential positive and negative changes move a starting value to an ending value.
Pitch context
You will see “Waterfall chart” in business pitches, proposals, executive summaries and decision decks when the discussion reaches business charts & exhibits.
Why it matters: It helps a reader interpret business charts & exhibits without confusing the measure, decision, role or evidence being discussed.
Connected terms
- WaterfallThe search label “Waterfall” can route to both entries.
Sources & evidence · 3
Supporting source families. This entry is an editorial synthesis rather than a quotation from one canonical glossary.
- U.S. Small Business Administration — Write your business planSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-16
- Y Combinator — YC Startup Library — fundraising and pitching resourcesSupporting source family · practitioner · checked 2026-08-16
- U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission — Small Business Capital Formation GlossarySupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-16