Tables Basics
- Use tables to simplify text and to show a large amount of information in a concise way. If a table has less than two rows, use text instead.
- Refer to every table in the text by Arabic numbers (e.g., As shown in Table 1) or with a citation (see Table 1). Summarize the main points of the table as an introduction.
- Number tables in the order they are mentioned.
- Be consistent in the formatting and vocabulary of all tables within a document.
- If you abbreviate a word in one table, you must do it in all tables.
- Titles should be brief but explain the main function or purpose.
- Use title case for table titles, which means to capitalize all nouns, verbs, proper nouns, and major words.
- Minor words less than four letters should be lowercased.
- The word “Table” and the number should be bolded.
- Italicize the table title
Table 1
Definitions of Variables and Sample Items
- You can use standard abbreviations and symbols such as percents (%) and numbers (no.) in headings without explanation.
- Ensure each column has a heading.
- Use sentence case for table headings, which means to lowercase all words except for the first word, the first word after a colon, and proper nouns.
- See a quick guide on tables below for the different heading types.
- The contents of the table may be single-spaced, one-and-a-half-spaced, or double-spaced.
- Tables should not be smaller than 10-point, Times New Roman Font.
- Use 12-point if possible and only use 10-point if this font ensures the table fits on one page instead of two.
- Place any notes below the table.
- Notes are needed if a table is from another source (e.g., Note. Adapted from...).
Figures Basics
- Any type of illustration (chart, graph, photograph, drawing) should be cited as a figure instead of a table.
- Figures should complement the information in the text or to simplify the text.
- Number figures in the order they are mentioned.
- Figures should be large enough to read easily and convey only essential information.
- Guidelines indicate between 8-14 point font with a sans-serif typeface
- 12-pt Courier is often used for figure font
- Be consistent in the formatting and vocabulary of all figures within a document.
- If you abbreviate a word in one figure, you must do it in all figures.
- Also, keep vocabulary and abbreviations consistent between figures and tables.
- Make sure data are plotted accurately and proportioned.
- Place labels close to identified items.
- Axis labels on graphs must be parallel to their axes.
- The word “Figure” and the Figure number should be bolded
- The figure title is in title case and italics.
Figure 1
Response Selections
- When included, Figure notes should begin with the word “Note” in italics, followed by a period and space. The note is placed below the figure.
Note: For both tables and figures, put them as close to where they are first mentioned as possible without interrupting the text. Usually, a table or figure will appear after the paragraph in which they are first mentioned.
