The shape of population pyramids can provide a lot of information just by looking at it. Read the chart below which describes the various types of pyramids.

Interactive exercise. Assistance may be required. Click on the name of each type to see an example.

Name Shape Description What does it mean?
Expanding Classic pyramid/triangle Wide base(high birth rate) and narrow top (high death rate) An expanding pyramid represents a lower standard of living; High birth rate is due to lack of access to birth control/lack of education. High death rate is due to poor health care and nutrition.
Stable/Stationary 1/2 Elipse Base width is equal to the width of reproductive years' width Low birth rate because of good family planning and education; low death rate because of good healthcare and nutrition.
Contracting Pyramid contracts at the base. Sometimes called a beehive. The base is narrower than the reproductive ages. Low birthrate represents a well-developed country.