The purpose of tables and figures in documents is to enhance your readers' understanding of the information in the document. However, before tables or figures are included in research one must address
- the necessity for visual material (a table of two or fewer columns and rows should be presented in text format)
- relationship of tables or figures and text
- documentation, integrity, and independence
- lastly organization, consistency, and coherence
This guide will provide basic APA standards on tables and figures in research.
Table Structure
Numbers
- Number all tables in the order they are mentioned in the text.
- Do not use suffix letters (ex. 1a, 1b, 1c).
- Do not write "table above" or "table below"
Titles
- Italicize table title
- Each table must have a clear and concise title
- The title can be used to explain a parenthetical (ex. Comparison of Flow Charts (FC) v. Bar Graphs (BG))
Headings
- Headings should be clear and brief.
- Capitalize only the first letter of the first word of the heading
- Headings should not be wider than the entry column
- All columns must have headings, even sub column
Body
- Consistency is key
- Be consistent in formatting and vocabulary
- Double space entire table
Notes are placed below the table
If the table is from another source include that information below the table in notes.
General Table Structure APA
Table 1
Title
|
Header
|
Subhead Colum Head Column Head Column Head
Row 1 100 275 16.6
Row 2 400 350 15.4
Row 3 800 900 51.3
Row 4 1399 1600
|
Preparing Figures
- Do not use special effects
- Figures with one column must be between 2 and 3.25 inches wide (5 to 8.45 cm)
- Two-columns must be between 4.25 and 6.875 inches wide (10.6 to 17.5 cm)
- The height should not exceed the top and bottom margins
- Text should be san serif font (ex. Helvetica, Arial, or Futura)
- Font size must be between eight and fourteen point
Caption and Legends
Captions and legends appear below the figure.
- Include figure number
- Title
- How to create Figures in APA style
- Legend
- Caption
- Captions serve as a brief, but complete explanation