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TABLES
FIGURES
&
REFERENCING
Public Speech
WHAT.?
What are these Tables & Figures
Table –
Tables are
compilations of all
the data in the form
of rows and columns
Figure –
Figures are any
illustrations other than
tables. They could be
drawings, photos, bar
charts, clip art, pie
charts, etc.
 To explain something more clearly
 Make the document more attractive
 To provide more information at once
 Differentiate something clearly
 For the easiness of understanding
Why We Use Tables & Figures
Tables & Figures
Contain several
Guidelines
Those Guidelines can be vary from
according to the Referencing style.
Guidelines for Tables
1) Combine repetitive tables: Tables that present repetitive information will impair
communication rather than enhance it. Examine the titles of all your tables and
figures and check if they talk about the same or similar things. If they do, rethink
the presentation and combine or delete the tables/graphs.
2) Divide the data: When presenting large amounts of information, divide the data
into clear and appropriate categories and present them in columns titled
accurately and descriptively.
3) Watch the extent of data in your tables: If the data you have to present is
extensive and would make the tables too cluttered or long, consider making the
tables a part of the Appendix or supplemental material.
4) De-clutter your table: Ensure that there is sufficient spacing between columns
and rows and that the layout does not make the table look too messy or crowded.
Guidelines for Figures
1) Ensure image clarity: Make sure that all the parts of the figure are clear Use
standard font; check that labels are legible against the figure background; and
ensure that images are sharp
2) Use legends to explain the key message: Figure legends are pivotal to the
effectiveness of a figure. Use them to draw attention to the central message
as well as to explain abbreviations and symbols.
3) Label all important parts: Label the key sections and parts of schematic
diagrams and photographs, and all axes, curves, and data sets in graphs and
data plots
4) Give specifics: Include scale bars in images and maps; specify units wherever
quantities are listed; include legends in maps and schematics; and specify
latitudes and longitudes on maps
The Anatomy of a Table
According to APA Style
 Labeling starts above the table
 Next line come up with the table number (Table #)
 No period fallows
 Title of the table should be in the title case & italic
 Title should be left justified
 Data (body)
 Footnote
The Anatomy of a Figure
According to APA Style
Labeling goes Below the figure
Figure number (Figure#)
Title of the figure should be in the title case & italic
Title should be left justified
It must be at the same line
Note axis and key to symbols
According to APA Style
When the figure is copied from a external source it has to be mentioned
Article:
Figure X. A concise explanation of the figure. Adapted [reprinted]
from “Title of article,” by A. Author, B. Author, and C. Author, Year,
Journal Title, Volume, page number. Copyright Year by "Name of
the copyright holder".
Book:
Figure X. A concise explanation of the figure. Adapted [reprinted]
from Title of book (p. xx), by E. F. Author, Year, Place of Publication:
Publisher. Copyright Year by "Name of the copyright holder".
How to use in ms Word
How to use in ms Word
Further
THANKS!
Any questions?
Tharaka Weddagala:
12/AG/018