Q: How to present a large amount of data in a table?

1 Answer to this question
Answer:

In a research paper, tables and figures are powerful visual tools that can help you present your findings in an impactful way! A good table is self-explanatory, does not repeat information already provided in the text, and presents salient features clearly. Without knowing anything about your data, it is a bit difficult to provide concrete steps and pointers to you, so we provide some general tips you could consider when preparing your table(s) :-).

The first consideration would be the overall layout, i.e., the number of rows and columns. There could be a number of ways of tabulating data depending on the fields of data (variables, treatments, etc.). Each row or column might need to be further subdivided.

Second, you would need to consider the order in which the factors are displayed. Do you want to compare the values of two variables? In that case, place them side by side.

Third, the table should not be too crammed with numbers. If the table is too large, check if it can be split or submitted as supplementary material.

Fourth, is there a trend or pattern in the numerical data that would be better understood in the form of a graph or plot rather than as a table? If so, consider converting the data into a more digestible form.

In addition, ensure the following:

  • A representative yet concise table title
  • Clear headings and subheadings for columns and rows
  • Footnotes/descriptors where required
  • Compliance with journal-specific instructions for preparing tables (e.g., presence or absence of horizontal and vertical lines).

You may also find these resources on presenting tables helpful including useful course by R Upskill, our sister brand :-)

Hope that helps. All the best for your study!

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