When is a table the proper way to present data?

Tables (along with figures) are used to present data in a concise and effective manner. Text can also be used to present results. In fact, simple results that can easily be explained in words are best this way. But tables are best when you have large amounts of data, such as results from many trials.

1. When should you display data in a table?
2. When should you use a table?
3. What is the best way to present a data?
4. What to consider when presenting tables in statistics?
5. When would it be better to use a table to present information rather than a graph?

When should you display data in a table?

Tables are appropriate when precise figures are needed and to compare a number of values. For example, if your sales manager is analyzing qualitative values as a whole, he or she can look up the value of a specific customer for a certain month in the table.

When should you use a table?

Tables are used to organize data that is too detailed or complicated to be described adequately in the text, allowing the reader to quickly see the results. They can be used to highlight trends or patterns in the data and to make a manuscript more readable by removing numeric data from the text.

What is the best way to present a data?

Tables are the best way to present data for reference purposes and can include very complex information. This type of information can be presented clearly by using an appropriate label and displaying the data in suitable groups (sorted in columns and rows).

What to consider when presenting tables in statistics?

Think about whether the data would be more visually appealing if presented as a figure or within the text. Try and combine tables that convey similar information. At the same time, split up tables that are too cluttered or too long, or consider presenting these data as supplementary information.

When would it be better to use a table to present information rather than a graph?

Tables are generally best if you want to be able to look up specific information or if the values must be reported precisely.