Tables and figures design

Reference Book: Kabir, SMS (2016). Basic Guidelines
for Research: An Introductory Approach for All
Disciplines. Book Zone Publication, ISBN: 978-984-
33-9565-8, Chittagong-4203, Bangladesh.
smskabir218@gmail.com; smskabir@psy.jnu.ac.bd 1

 What is Tabulation?What is Tabulation?
 Purpose of the TabulationPurpose of the Tabulation
 Steps in TabulationSteps in Tabulation
 Consideration in Construction of a TableConsideration in Construction of a Table
 Deciding to Use FigureDeciding to Use Figure
 Types of FigureTypes of Figure
 Preparation of FigurePreparation of Figure
 Creating GraphsCreating Graphs
 Figure Legends and CaptionsFigure Legends and Captions
 Figure Checklist.Figure Checklist.Reference Book: Kabir, SMS (2016). BasicReference Book: Kabir, SMS (2016). Basic
Guidelines for Research: An IntroductoryGuidelines for Research: An Introductory
Approach for All Disciplines. Book ZoneApproach for All Disciplines. Book Zone
Publication, ISBN: 978-984-33-9565-8,Publication, ISBN: 978-984-33-9565-8,
Chittagong-4203, Bangladesh.Chittagong-4203, Bangladesh.
smskabir218@gmail.com;smskabir218@gmail.com;
smskabir@psy.jnu.ac.bdsmskabir@psy.jnu.ac.bd 2

Reference Book: Kabir, SMS (2016). BasicReference Book: Kabir, SMS (2016). Basic
smskabir@psy.jnu.ac.bdsmskabir@psy.jnu.ac.bd
Tables are efficient, enabling the researcher toTables are efficient, enabling the researcher to
present a large amount of data in a small amount ofpresent a large amount of data in a small amount of
space.space.
Tables usually show exact numerical values, and theTables usually show exact numerical values, and the
data are arranged in an orderly display of columnsdata are arranged in an orderly display of columns
and rows, which aids comparison.and rows, which aids comparison.
It is the process of condensation of informationIt is the process of condensation of information
collected through enquiry.collected through enquiry.
A table represents summary of the data by usingA table represents summary of the data by using
columns and rows entering figures in the body ofcolumns and rows entering figures in the body of
table.table.
3

Purpose of the TabulationPurpose of the Tabulation
The main purposes of the tabulation are –The main purposes of the tabulation are –
to summarize a mass ofto summarize a mass of
numerical information, andnumerical information, and
to present it in the simplestto present it in the simplest
possible form consistent withpossible form consistent with
purpose of the study.purpose of the study.
4

Steps in TabulationSteps in Tabulation
 Transformation of informationTransformation of information
according to classification fromaccording to classification from
questionnaire to work-sheets forquestionnaire to work-sheets for
facilitating handling.facilitating handling.
 After summarization of informationAfter summarization of information
in the work-sheet draft table is toin the work-sheet draft table is to
be prepared.be prepared.
 Preparation of final table containingPreparation of final table containing
the results of draft table.the results of draft table.
 Transformation of informationTransformation of information
according to classification fromaccording to classification from
questionnaire to work-sheets forquestionnaire to work-sheets for
facilitating handling.facilitating handling.
 After summarization of informationAfter summarization of information
in the work-sheet draft table is toin the work-sheet draft table is to
be prepared.be prepared.
 Preparation of final table containingPreparation of final table containing
the results of draft table.the results of draft table.
5

Forms of TableForms of Table
Forms of tables may be single, double,Forms of tables may be single, double,
triple or manifold, according to the numbertriple or manifold, according to the number
of characteristic covered by the table.of characteristic covered by the table.
 A simple table shows only oneA simple table shows only one
characteristic. The data are presentedcharacteristic. The data are presented
only in terms of one of theironly in terms of one of their
characteristic.characteristic.
 In two-fold table two characteristics areIn two-fold table two characteristics are
included.included.
 Similarly, manifold tables show manySimilarly, manifold tables show many
characteristics.characteristics.

Nature of Migration No. of Respondents Percentage
Alone 290 25
With the Group 868 75
EducationEducation FixedFixed BusinessBusiness ProfessionProfession WageWage OtherOther TotalTotal
Salary jobSalary job earnerearner
IlliterateIlliterate 44 1111 11 2525 22 4343
Up to Class IVUp to Class IV 66 2222 22 1313 22 4545
Above class IV butAbove class IV but ]4]4 3030 22 22 22 SOSO
not matriculatenot matriculate
Matriculate but notMatriculate but not 2424 1212 33 -- 11 4040
graduategraduate
Graduate & aboveGraduate & above 88 33 77 -- 11 1919
TotalTotal 5656 7878 1515 4040 88 197197
Example – 1: A simple tableExample – 1: A simple table
Table 1Table 1
Percentage Distribution of the Respondents According to Nature of MigrationPercentage Distribution of the Respondents According to Nature of Migration
Source: Ahmed, A. Migration of Rural Poor to Urban Slums and Their Poverty Situation: CaseSource: Ahmed, A. Migration of Rural Poor to Urban Slums and Their Poverty Situation: Case
Studies of Selected Metropolitan Cities in Bangladesh, BARD, 2004, 52.Studies of Selected Metropolitan Cities in Bangladesh, BARD, 2004, 52.
Example – 2 two-fold tableExample – 2 two-fold table
Table 2Table 2
Distribution of Consumers According to their Education and OccupationDistribution of Consumers According to their Education and Occupation
Source: Retailing of Consumer Goods in former East Pakistan published by Bureau of Economic Research,Source: Retailing of Consumer Goods in former East Pakistan published by Bureau of Economic Research,
Dacca University, 1965.Dacca University, 1965.

MetropolitanMetropolitan
CityCity
BeforeBefore MigrationMigration AfterAfter MigrationMigration
No. ofNo. of
RespondentRespondent
EmploymentEmployment
(Man days)(Man days)
No. ofNo. of
RespondentRespondent
EmploymentEmployment
(Man days)(Man days)
DhakaDhaka 278278 233233 317317 311311
ChittagongChittagong 270270 243243 291291 310310
RajshahiRajshahi 204204 233233 270270 312312
KhulnaKhulna 183183 218218 301301 313313
Example – 3 Manifold tablesExample – 3 Manifold tables
Table 3Table 3
Yearly Average Employment Status of the Respondents Before and AfterYearly Average Employment Status of the Respondents Before and After
Migration to Metropolitan CitiesMigration to Metropolitan Cities
Source: Ahmed, A. Migration of Rural Poor to Urban Slums and Their PovertySource: Ahmed, A. Migration of Rural Poor to Urban Slums and Their Poverty
Situation: Case Studies of Selected Metropolitan Cities in Bangladesh, BARD,Situation: Case Studies of Selected Metropolitan Cities in Bangladesh, BARD,
2004, 37.2004, 37.Reference Book: Kabir, SMS (2016). BasicReference Book: Kabir, SMS (2016). Basic

Stub HeadStub Head CaptionCaption
Column HeadColumn Head Column HeadColumn Head
Sub ColumnSub Column Sub ColumnSub Column Sub ColumnSub Column Sub ColumnSub Column
HeadHead HeadHead HeadHead HeadHead
Stub EntriesStub Entries BB 00 DD YY
Different Parts of a TableDifferent Parts of a Table
 TitleTitle:: Each table has its title describing the contents.Each table has its title describing the contents.
 Sub HeadSub Head:: It describes the characteristic of the stubIt describes the characteristic of the stub
entries.entries.
 Stub EntriesStub Entries:: These are the classification of actual data.These are the classification of actual data.
 Caption HeadCaption Head:: This explains the data placed in each columnThis explains the data placed in each column
of caption head.of caption head.
 BodyBody:: It contains the data in classified form.It contains the data in classified form.
 Foot NoteFoot Note:: It may be used to describe anything.It may be used to describe anything.
 SourceSource: Disclosing the source of information.: Disclosing the source of information.
TitleTitle
Footnotes:Footnotes:
Source:Source:

Main ConsiderationMain Consideration in Construction of a Table -in Construction of a Table -
Table should be as simple as possible.Table should be as simple as possible.
It is advisable to have a rough draft of the table beforeIt is advisable to have a rough draft of the table before
preparation of actual table.preparation of actual table.
The size of different columns should be so adjusted thatThe size of different columns should be so adjusted that
the overall length of the table is proportionate to itsthe overall length of the table is proportionate to its
breath.breath.
The units of measurement should be clearly stated.The units of measurement should be clearly stated.
The title of the table should be precise.The title of the table should be precise.
Whenever possible figures may be rounded up.Whenever possible figures may be rounded up.
The size of table should not be too large.The size of table should not be too large.
There should not be any ambiguity in the entry of items inThere should not be any ambiguity in the entry of items in
the table. The expressions should be clear.the table. The expressions should be clear.
Different columns shown for comparison should be placedDifferent columns shown for comparison should be placed
side by side.side by side.
10

Table ChecklistTable Checklist
 Is the table necessary?Is the table necessary?
 Is the entire table single- or double-spaced?Is the entire table single- or double-spaced?
 Are all comparable tables presented consistently?Are all comparable tables presented consistently?
 Is the title brief but explanatory?Is the title brief but explanatory?
 Does every column have a column heading?Does every column have a column heading?
 Are all abbreviations; special use of italics, parentheses, andAre all abbreviations; special use of italics, parentheses, and
dashes; and special symbols explained?dashes; and special symbols explained?
 Are all probability level values correctly identified, and areAre all probability level values correctly identified, and are
asterisks attached to the appropriate table entries? Is a probabilityasterisks attached to the appropriate table entries? Is a probability
level assigned the same number of asterisks in all the tables in thelevel assigned the same number of asterisks in all the tables in the
same document?same document?
 If the table or its data are from another source, is the sourceIf the table or its data are from another source, is the source
properly cited?properly cited?
 Is the table referred to in the text?Is the table referred to in the text?
11

General guidelinesGeneral guidelines
A. NecessityA. Necessity: Ask yourself: Is the table or figure: Ask yourself: Is the table or figure
necessary? It is better to present simplenecessary? It is better to present simple
descriptive statistics in the text, not in a table.descriptive statistics in the text, not in a table.
B. Relation of Tables or Figures and TextB. Relation of Tables or Figures and Text: Because: Because
tables and figures supplement the text, refer intables and figures supplement the text, refer in
the text to all tables and figures used andthe text to all tables and figures used and
explain what the reader should look for whenexplain what the reader should look for when
using the table or figure.using the table or figure.
C. DocumentationC. Documentation: If you are using figures, tables: If you are using figures, tables
and/or data from other sources, be sure toand/or data from other sources, be sure to
gather all the information you will need togather all the information you will need to
properly document your sources.properly document your sources.
12

General guidelinesGeneral guidelines
D. Integrity and IndependenceD. Integrity and Independence: Each table and figure must be: Each table and figure must be
intelligible without reference to the text, so be sure to includeintelligible without reference to the text, so be sure to include
an explanation of every abbreviation.an explanation of every abbreviation.
E. Organization, Consistency, and CoherenceE. Organization, Consistency, and Coherence: Number all tables: Number all tables
sequentially as you refer to them in the text (Table 1, Tablesequentially as you refer to them in the text (Table 1, Table
2, etc.), likewise for figures (Figure 1, Figure 2, etc.).2, etc.), likewise for figures (Figure 1, Figure 2, etc.).
Abbreviations, terminology, probability level values must beAbbreviations, terminology, probability level values must be
consistent across tables and figures in the same article.consistent across tables and figures in the same article.
Likewise, formats, titles, and headings must be consistent.Likewise, formats, titles, and headings must be consistent.
Do not repeat the same data in different tables.Do not repeat the same data in different tables.
13

Guidelines for Tables within AssignmentsGuidelines for Tables within Assignments
These guidelines have been adapted from theThese guidelines have been adapted from the Publication manual of the APAPublication manual of the APA..
Layout of the table should be logical and easily understood byLayout of the table should be logical and easily understood by
the reader.the reader.
Include lines within a table only when they assist readability orInclude lines within a table only when they assist readability or
clarity.clarity.
Each column and row must include a brief, but descriptiveEach column and row must include a brief, but descriptive
heading.heading.
Tables should supplement rather than duplicate your text.Tables should supplement rather than duplicate your text.
Refer to every table within your text by the table number (e.g..Refer to every table within your text by the table number (e.g..
Table 1), highlighting only the point you want to emphasize.Table 1), highlighting only the point you want to emphasize.
14

Guidelines for Tables within AssignmentsGuidelines for Tables within Assignments
Tables must be numbered consecutively in the order in which theyTables must be numbered consecutively in the order in which they
appear within the text. That is, the first table is labeled “Tableappear within the text. That is, the first table is labeled “Table
1”, the second “Table 2”, and so on.1”, the second “Table 2”, and so on.
Include a title (in italics) for the table on the next line directlyInclude a title (in italics) for the table on the next line directly
after the table number (spacing can either be single or double-after the table number (spacing can either be single or double-
space). Each major word in the title should appear in capitals.space). Each major word in the title should appear in capitals.
For example-For example-
Table 1Table 1
The Difference Between Cue Collection in Experienced and NoviceThe Difference Between Cue Collection in Experienced and Novice
NursesNurses
Include descriptive notes for the table directly underneath theInclude descriptive notes for the table directly underneath the
table. Refer to thetable. Refer to the Publication manualPublication manual for more details on thefor more details on the
types of notes to that can be included. types of notes to that can be included.
15

Deciding to Use FigureDeciding to Use Figure
In APA journals, any type of illustration
other than a table is called a figure. A
figure may be a chart, graph, photograph,
drawing, or other depiction.
Figures convey at a quick glance an overall
pattern of results. They are especially
useful in describing an interaction – or
lack thereof- and nonlinear relations. A
well-prepared figure can also convey
structural or pictorial concepts more
efficiently than can text.
16

Deciding to Use FigureDeciding to Use Figure
Deciding whether to use a figure, ask yourself these questions –Deciding whether to use a figure, ask yourself these questions –
 What idea do you need to convey?What idea do you need to convey?
 Is the figure necessary? If it duplicates text, itIs the figure necessary? If it duplicates text, it
is not necessary.is not necessary.
 What type of figure (e.g., graph, chart,What type of figure (e.g., graph, chart,
diagram, drawing, map, or photograph) is mostdiagram, drawing, map, or photograph) is most
suited to your purpose?suited to your purpose?
 Will a simple relatively inexpensive figure (e.g.,Will a simple relatively inexpensive figure (e.g.,
line art) convey the point as well as an elaborate,line art) convey the point as well as an elaborate,
expensive figure (e.g., photographs combinedexpensive figure (e.g., photographs combined
with line art, figures that are in color instead ofwith line art, figures that are in color instead of
in black and white)?in black and white)?
17

Types of FigureTypes of Figure
 GraphsGraphs are good at quickly conveying relationships likeare good at quickly conveying relationships like
comparison and distribution. The most common forms ofcomparison and distribution. The most common forms of
graphs are scatter plots, line graphs, bar graphs, pictorialgraphs are scatter plots, line graphs, bar graphs, pictorial
graphs, and pie graphs. It shows relations- comparison andgraphs, and pie graphs. It shows relations- comparison and
distribution – in a set of data and may show, for example,distribution – in a set of data and may show, for example,
absolute values, percentages, or index numbers.absolute values, percentages, or index numbers.

 Scatter plotsScatter plots are composed of individual dots thatare composed of individual dots that
represent the value of a specific event on the scalerepresent the value of a specific event on the scale
established by the two variables plotted on theestablished by the two variables plotted on the x-x- andand y-y-
axes. When the dots cluster together, a correlation isaxes. When the dots cluster together, a correlation is
implied. On the other hand, when the dots are scatteredimplied. On the other hand, when the dots are scattered
randomly, no correlation is seen.randomly, no correlation is seen.

 Line graphsLine graphs depict the relationship between quantitativedepict the relationship between quantitative
variables. Customarily, the independent variable is plottedvariables. Customarily, the independent variable is plotted
along thealong the x-x-axis (horizontally) and the dependent variable isaxis (horizontally) and the dependent variable is
plotted along theplotted along the y-y-axis (vertically).axis (vertically).
 GraphsGraphs are good at quickly conveying relationships likeare good at quickly conveying relationships like
comparison and distribution. The most common forms ofcomparison and distribution. The most common forms of
graphs are scatter plots, line graphs, bar graphs, pictorialgraphs are scatter plots, line graphs, bar graphs, pictorial
graphs, and pie graphs. It shows relations- comparison andgraphs, and pie graphs. It shows relations- comparison and
distribution – in a set of data and may show, for example,distribution – in a set of data and may show, for example,
absolute values, percentages, or index numbers.absolute values, percentages, or index numbers.

 Scatter plotsScatter plots are composed of individual dots thatare composed of individual dots that
represent the value of a specific event on the scalerepresent the value of a specific event on the scale
established by the two variables plotted on theestablished by the two variables plotted on the x-x- andand y-y-
axes. When the dots cluster together, a correlation isaxes. When the dots cluster together, a correlation is
implied. On the other hand, when the dots are scatteredimplied. On the other hand, when the dots are scattered
randomly, no correlation is seen.randomly, no correlation is seen.

 Line graphsLine graphs depict the relationship between quantitativedepict the relationship between quantitative
variables. Customarily, the independent variable is plottedvariables. Customarily, the independent variable is plotted
along thealong the x-x-axis (horizontally) and the dependent variable isaxis (horizontally) and the dependent variable is
plotted along theplotted along the y-y-axis (vertically).axis (vertically).
18

 Bar graphsBar graphs come in three main types –come in three main types –
(1)(1) solid vertical or horizontal bars: the independentsolid vertical or horizontal bars: the independent
variable is categorical, and each bar represents onevariable is categorical, and each bar represents one
kind of datum, e. g. a bar graph of monthlykind of datum, e. g. a bar graph of monthly
expenditures.expenditures.
(2)(2) multiple bar graphs: show more complex informationmultiple bar graphs: show more complex information
than a simple bar graph, e. g. monthly expendituresthan a simple bar graph, e. g. monthly expenditures
divided into categories (housing, food, transport, etc.).divided into categories (housing, food, transport, etc.).
(3)(3) sliding bars: the bars are divided by a horizontalsliding bars: the bars are divided by a horizontal
line which serves as the baseline, enabling theline which serves as the baseline, enabling the
representation of data above and below a specificrepresentation of data above and below a specific
reference point, e. g. high and low temperatures v.reference point, e. g. high and low temperatures v.
average temperature.average temperature.
 Bar graphsBar graphs come in three main types –come in three main types –
(1)(1) solid vertical or horizontal bars: the independentsolid vertical or horizontal bars: the independent
variable is categorical, and each bar represents onevariable is categorical, and each bar represents one
kind of datum, e. g. a bar graph of monthlykind of datum, e. g. a bar graph of monthly
expenditures.expenditures.
(2)(2) multiple bar graphs: show more complex informationmultiple bar graphs: show more complex information
than a simple bar graph, e. g. monthly expendituresthan a simple bar graph, e. g. monthly expenditures
divided into categories (housing, food, transport, etc.).divided into categories (housing, food, transport, etc.).
(3)(3) sliding bars: the bars are divided by a horizontalsliding bars: the bars are divided by a horizontal
line which serves as the baseline, enabling theline which serves as the baseline, enabling the
representation of data above and below a specificrepresentation of data above and below a specific
reference point, e. g. high and low temperatures v.reference point, e. g. high and low temperatures v.
average temperature.average temperature.
19

 Pictorial graphsPictorial graphs can be used to showcan be used to show
quantitative differences between groups. Itquantitative differences between groups. It
can be very deceptive: if the height of ancan be very deceptive: if the height of an
image is doubled, its area is quadrupled.image is doubled, its area is quadrupled.
Great care should be taken that imagesGreat care should be taken that images
representing the same values must be therepresenting the same values must be the
same size.same size.

 Circle (or pie) graphsCircle (or pie) graphs, or, or 100% graphs100% graphs
are used to represent percentages andare used to represent percentages and
proportions. For the sake of readability, noproportions. For the sake of readability, no
more than five variables should bemore than five variables should be
compared in a single pie graph.compared in a single pie graph.
 Pictorial graphsPictorial graphs can be used to showcan be used to show
quantitative differences between groups. Itquantitative differences between groups. It
can be very deceptive: if the height of ancan be very deceptive: if the height of an
image is doubled, its area is quadrupled.image is doubled, its area is quadrupled.
Great care should be taken that imagesGreat care should be taken that images
representing the same values must be therepresenting the same values must be the
same size.same size.

 Circle (or pie) graphsCircle (or pie) graphs, or, or 100% graphs100% graphs
are used to represent percentages andare used to represent percentages and
proportions. For the sake of readability, noproportions. For the sake of readability, no
more than five variables should bemore than five variables should be
compared in a single pie graph.compared in a single pie graph.
20

 ChartsCharts can describe the relations between parts ofcan describe the relations between parts of
a group or object or the sequence of operations in aa group or object or the sequence of operations in a
process; charts are usually boxes connected with lines.process; charts are usually boxes connected with lines.
For example, organizational charts show the hierarchyFor example, organizational charts show the hierarchy
in a group, flowcharts show the sequence of steps in ain a group, flowcharts show the sequence of steps in a
process, and schematics show components in a system.process, and schematics show components in a system.

 Dot mapsDot maps can show population density, and shadedcan show population density, and shaded
maps can show averages or percentages. In thesemaps can show averages or percentages. In these
cased, plotted data are superimposed on a map. Mapscased, plotted data are superimposed on a map. Maps
should always be prepared by a professional artist,should always be prepared by a professional artist,
who should clearly indicate the compass orientationwho should clearly indicate the compass orientation
(e.g., north-south) of the map, fully identify the(e.g., north-south) of the map, fully identify the
map’s location, and provide the scale to which the mapmap’s location, and provide the scale to which the map
is drawn. Use arrows to help readers focus onis drawn. Use arrows to help readers focus on
reference points.reference points.
 ChartsCharts can describe the relations between parts ofcan describe the relations between parts of
a group or object or the sequence of operations in aa group or object or the sequence of operations in a
process; charts are usually boxes connected with lines.process; charts are usually boxes connected with lines.
For example, organizational charts show the hierarchyFor example, organizational charts show the hierarchy
in a group, flowcharts show the sequence of steps in ain a group, flowcharts show the sequence of steps in a
process, and schematics show components in a system.process, and schematics show components in a system.

 Dot mapsDot maps can show population density, and shadedcan show population density, and shaded
maps can show averages or percentages. In thesemaps can show averages or percentages. In these
cased, plotted data are superimposed on a map. Mapscased, plotted data are superimposed on a map. Maps
should always be prepared by a professional artist,should always be prepared by a professional artist,
who should clearly indicate the compass orientationwho should clearly indicate the compass orientation
(e.g., north-south) of the map, fully identify the(e.g., north-south) of the map, fully identify the
map’s location, and provide the scale to which the mapmap’s location, and provide the scale to which the map
is drawn. Use arrows to help readers focus onis drawn. Use arrows to help readers focus on
reference points.reference points.
21

 Drawings and photographsDrawings and photographs can be used tocan be used to
communicate very specific information about acommunicate very specific information about a
subject. Thanks to software, both are now highlysubject. Thanks to software, both are now highly
manipulable. For the sake of readability andmanipulable. For the sake of readability and
simplicity, line drawings should be used, andsimplicity, line drawings should be used, and
photographs should have the highest possiblephotographs should have the highest possible
contrast between the background and focal point.contrast between the background and focal point.
Cropping, cutting out extraneous detail, can beCropping, cutting out extraneous detail, can be
very beneficial for a photograph. Use softwarevery beneficial for a photograph. Use software
like Graphic Converter or Photoshop to convertlike Graphic Converter or Photoshop to convert
color photographs to black and white beforecolor photographs to black and white before
printing on a laser printer. Otherwise mostprinting on a laser printer. Otherwise most
printers will produce an image with poor contrast.printers will produce an image with poor contrast.
 Drawings and photographsDrawings and photographs can be used tocan be used to
communicate very specific information about acommunicate very specific information about a
subject. Thanks to software, both are now highlysubject. Thanks to software, both are now highly
manipulable. For the sake of readability andmanipulable. For the sake of readability and
simplicity, line drawings should be used, andsimplicity, line drawings should be used, and
photographs should have the highest possiblephotographs should have the highest possible
contrast between the background and focal point.contrast between the background and focal point.
Cropping, cutting out extraneous detail, can beCropping, cutting out extraneous detail, can be
very beneficial for a photograph. Use softwarevery beneficial for a photograph. Use software
like Graphic Converter or Photoshop to convertlike Graphic Converter or Photoshop to convert
color photographs to black and white beforecolor photographs to black and white before
printing on a laser printer. Otherwise mostprinting on a laser printer. Otherwise most
printers will produce an image with poor contrast.printers will produce an image with poor contrast.
22

In preparing figures, communication and readability must be theIn preparing figures, communication and readability must be the
ultimate criteria. The APA has determined specifications for theultimate criteria. The APA has determined specifications for the
size of figures and the fonts used in them.size of figures and the fonts used in them.
 Figures of one column must be between 2 and 3.25 inches wideFigures of one column must be between 2 and 3.25 inches wide
(5 to 8.45 cm).(5 to 8.45 cm).
 Two-column figures must be between 4.25 and 6.875 inches wideTwo-column figures must be between 4.25 and 6.875 inches wide
(10.6 to 17.5 cm).(10.6 to 17.5 cm).
 Height of figures should not exceed the top and bottom margins.Height of figures should not exceed the top and bottom margins.
 The text in a figure should be in a san serif font (such asThe text in a figure should be in a san serif font (such as
Helvetica, Arial, or Futura).Helvetica, Arial, or Futura).
 The font size must be between eight and fourteen point.The font size must be between eight and fourteen point.
 Use circles and squares to distinguish curves on a line graph (atUse circles and squares to distinguish curves on a line graph (at
the same font size as the other labels).the same font size as the other labels).
23

Creating GraphCreating Graph
Following these guidelines in creating a graph mechanicallyFollowing these guidelines in creating a graph mechanically
or with a computer. Computer software that generatesor with a computer. Computer software that generates
graphs will often handle most of these steps automatically.graphs will often handle most of these steps automatically.
Use bright white paper.Use bright white paper.
Use medium lines for the vertical and horizontalUse medium lines for the vertical and horizontal
axes.axes.
Choose the appropriate grid scale.Choose the appropriate grid scale.
In line graphs, a change in the proportionateIn line graphs, a change in the proportionate
sizes of thesizes of the xx units to theunits to the yy units changes theunits changes the
slant of the line.slant of the line.
Indicate units of measurement by placing tickIndicate units of measurement by placing tick
marks on each axis at the appropriate intervals.marks on each axis at the appropriate intervals.
Use equal increments of space between tickUse equal increments of space between tick
marks on linear scales.marks on linear scales.
24

• If the units of measurement on the axes do notIf the units of measurement on the axes do not
begin at zero, break the axes with a doublebegin at zero, break the axes with a double
slash.slash.
Clearly label each axis with both the quantityClearly label each axis with both the quantity
measured and the units in which the quantity ismeasured and the units in which the quantity is
measured.measured.
Position the axis label parallel to its axis. Do notPosition the axis label parallel to its axis. Do not
stack letters so that the label reads vertically;stack letters so that the label reads vertically;
do not place a label perpendicular to the verticaldo not place a label perpendicular to the vertical
(y) axis unless it is very short (i.e., two words or(y) axis unless it is very short (i.e., two words or
a maximum of 10 characters). The numbering anda maximum of 10 characters). The numbering and
lettering of grid points should be horizontal onlettering of grid points should be horizontal on
both axes.both axes.
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Use legibility as a guide in determining theUse legibility as a guide in determining the
number of curves to place on a figure –number of curves to place on a figure –
usually no more than four curves per graph.usually no more than four curves per graph.
Allow adequate space between and withinAllow adequate space between and within
curves.curves.
Use distinct, simple geometric forms for plotUse distinct, simple geometric forms for plot
points; good choices are open and solid circlespoints; good choices are open and solid circles
and triangles. Combinations of squares andand triangles. Combinations of squares and
circles or squares and diamonds are notcircles or squares and diamonds are not
recommended because they can be difficultrecommended because they can be difficult
to differentiate if the art is reduced as canto differentiate if the art is reduced as can
open symbols with dots inside.open symbols with dots inside.
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• A legend explains the symbols used in the figure. AA legend explains the symbols used in the figure. A
caption is a concise explanation of the figure; it iscaption is a concise explanation of the figure; it is
typeset and placed below the figure. typeset and placed below the figure.
• For the figure number, typeFor the figure number, type Figure XFigure X. Then type. Then type
the title of the figure in sentence case. Forthe title of the figure in sentence case. For
example -example -
Figure 1Figure 1. How to create figures in APA style.. How to create figures in APA style.
Captions serve as a brief, but complete, explanationCaptions serve as a brief, but complete, explanation
and as a title.and as a title.
Graphs should always include a legend that explainsGraphs should always include a legend that explains
the symbols, abbreviations, and terminology used inthe symbols, abbreviations, and terminology used in
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Figure ChecklistFigure Checklist
APA includes the following within the definition ofAPA includes the following within the definition of
figures - ● Graphs, ● Charts, ● Maps, ● Drawings,figures - ● Graphs, ● Charts, ● Maps, ● Drawings,
and ● Photographs.and ● Photographs.
Is the figure necessary?Is the figure necessary?
Is the figure simple, clean, and free of extraneousIs the figure simple, clean, and free of extraneous
detail?detail?
Are the data plotted accurately?Are the data plotted accurately?
Is the grid scale correctly proportioned?Is the grid scale correctly proportioned?
Is the lettering large and dark enough to read? IsIs the lettering large and dark enough to read? Is
the lettering compatible in size with the rest of thethe lettering compatible in size with the rest of the
figure?figure?
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Are parallel figures or equally importantAre parallel figures or equally important
figures prepared according to the samefigures prepared according to the same
scale?scale?
Are terms spelled correctly?Are terms spelled correctly?
Are all abbreviations and symbols explainedAre all abbreviations and symbols explained
in a figure legend or figure caption?in a figure legend or figure caption?
Are the figures numbered consecutively withAre the figures numbered consecutively with
Arabic numerals?Arabic numerals?
Are all figures mentioned in the text?Are all figures mentioned in the text?
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• Be selective in what figures, as well as theBe selective in what figures, as well as the
number of figures you include within your text.number of figures you include within your text.
Figures should supplement rather than duplicateFigures should supplement rather than duplicate
your text.your text.
Ensure for all figures axes are clearly identifiedEnsure for all figures axes are clearly identified
and elements within the figure are labeled andand elements within the figure are labeled and
explained.explained.
If required, include a legend explaining symbolsIf required, include a legend explaining symbols
used within a figure.used within a figure.
Refer to every figure within your text by theRefer to every figure within your text by the
figure number (e.g. Figure 1), highlighting onlyfigure number (e.g. Figure 1), highlighting only
the point you want to emphasize.the point you want to emphasize.
Guidelines for Figures within AssignmentsGuidelines for Figures within Assignments
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• Figures must be numbered consecutively in the orderFigures must be numbered consecutively in the order
in which they appear within the text, in italics.in which they appear within the text, in italics.
That is, the first table is labeled "That is, the first table is labeled "Figure 1Figure 1 ", the", the
second "second "Figure 2Figure 2 ", and so on.", and so on.
Include the figure number directly below the figureInclude the figure number directly below the figure
itself, followed by a full-stop then a brief title.itself, followed by a full-stop then a brief title.
Capitalize only the first word of the title and anyCapitalize only the first word of the title and any
proper nouns. The title should be descriptive of theproper nouns. The title should be descriptive of the
contents of the figure.contents of the figure.
Include any additional notes for the figure directlyInclude any additional notes for the figure directly
underneath the figure. underneath the figure.
Any changes to a figure from the original must beAny changes to a figure from the original must be
identified and included as a Note.identified and included as a Note.
Guidelines for Figures within AssignmentsGuidelines for Figures within Assignments
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Thursday, February 1, 2018Thursday, February 1, 2018
?QuestionsQuestions
?AnswersAnswers
32

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