Visuals: tables, graphs, diagrams

Whenever you need to present a significant amount of data, especially numerical, you should consider creating a table or graph. The chief purpose of tables is to assemble and present information so that it can be quickly and clearly understood.

Choose a clear table over lengthy summaries in words. However, if you use a table, don’t repeat the data in your text: commentary should offer analysis, draw conclusions or point out trends.

A few pointers:

• Make tables concise and simple. A series of short tables may be more useful than one long and complex table.
• Make tables consistent in terminology, abbreviations, and format.
• Make tables clear and readable.
• Omit redundant material or superfluous notes.
• Choose pertinent, short and clear titles. Just a noun or noun phrase is better than a long sentence.
• Explain abbreviations.
• Give data source(s).

Graphs, in the broad sense of the word, are diagrams that display data graphically. They are vivid and concise. Choose a graph over a table if you can. Graphs need to be instantly understandable and convey information that will be useful to the reader. Ask yourself these questions:

• Is it pertinent?
• Does the presentation really benefit the information?

Number tables, graphs and maps separately. Number consecutively within any chapter or appendix in a one-point system: chapter or appendix number followed by table or figure number, for example Table 2.1. (first table in Chapter 2); Figure 3.4. (fourth figure in Chapter 3).