Lab ReportNotes About Tables, Graphs and Illustrations
In scientific writing, the most common area to find
graphs, tables and illustrations will be in the results section
of a lab report because these types of visuals effectively help the
reader
to understand the experiment’s procedure and results. First,
we will explain the differences among the three visuals.
Tables – used to summarize, compare or present numerical data;
data organized in matrix form.
Graphs – used to highlight trends and patterns; data arranged
along an x-axis and y-axis.
Illustrations – used to depict, illustrate or highlight structural
aspects; data presented in the form of line drawings, diagrams or
computer-generated designs.
When using tables, graphs or illustrations in your lab report, be
sure to
- Select a table, graph or illustration that clearly presents
data for readers in the best possible way.
- Place a descriptive
title above tables and below graphs and illustrations.
- Present
each table, graph or illustration as independent; readers should
be able to understand the information presented without
referring to the text.
- Refer to tables, graphs and illustrations
in the text and place them as near as possible to their area in
the text.
Continue to Lab Report: Checklist
Copyright 2003 by the Academic Center and the
University of Houston-Victoria.
Created 2002 by Candice Chovanec Melzow.
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