Presenting and interpreting information in tables
A tables is a matrix of information in rows and columns, with the title, and only show two variables
The purpose of tabulation is to summarise the information and present it in a more understandable way.
The following rules or principles oftabulation should be considered when preparing tables:
Title: the table must have a clear andself-explanatory title.
Source: the source of the material usedin drawing up the table should be stated (usually by way of a footnote).
Units: the units of measurement that havebeen used must be stated e.g. 000s means that the units are in thousands.
Headings: all column and row headingsshould be clear and concise.
Totals: these should be shown whereappropriate, andalsoany subtotals that may be applicable to the calculations.
Percentages and ratios: these should beshown, if meaningful, with an indication of how they were calculated.
A key element of setting up a good tableis to decide upon the optimal arrangement of columns and rows.
Three general rules apply here:
Try to ensure that the table fits on onepage.
The columns should be arranged so thatrelated information is shown alongside each other.
The information shown in the rows shouldbe arranged so that there is a logical progression through the information andany meaningful totals or subtotals can be clearly made.
