16. Creating Tables

Sleeker tables to better present your data

After the graphs, the second visual way to present your results is via tables, and again, the sleekness and professionalism of your table will have a huge impact on the audience's appreciation of your work.

Let's start with a typical table format found in so many report, in this instance presenting the population and size of the ten largest US cities.

Firstly, we need units to be able to quantify the data: what does size refer to? This can only be clarified by specifying the appropriate units.

Secondly, the table is too cluttered: the columns should be made wider, which will give the table a lighter feeling, but more importantly will be easier to analyse for the reader

Looking in the size column, we have an inconsistent number of decimal places, which must be remedied for.

Finally, the table is too blend, not all borders need to be displayed, colours, although not necessary, can be added. Furthermore, the title row should stand our more; this is typically achieved by using a bold font. Enhanced examples of the above table are presented hereafter, with the addition of the required table number and descriptive caption, starting with a black and white table.

Table 1: Comparison of the population and size of the 10 largest US Cities. [Black and White]

This can be made easier to read by using colours, starting with grey-scale.

Table 2: Comparison of the population and size of the 10 largest US Cities. [Grey-Scale]

But a colour code can also be used to suit your College, University or Company colour scheme and logo, below are a blue and orange themed examples.

Table 3: Comparison of the population and size of the 10 largest US Cities. [Blue]

Table 4: Comparison of the population and size of the 10 largest US Cities. [Orange]

You are now is a position to display your result in table that are elegant, professional and easy to understand, thus maximising the impact of your work on the reader, and ensuring your work is fully appreciate.