Embedded Files
Data tables are important tools to organize and present collected data. If they are constructed and organized correctly, the reader will have a much easier time understanding the data that has been collected and what you are trying to present.
All data tables have certain aspects to help communicate the information.
Title - Titles are stated above the table using a specific format to clearly identify the variables that are presented in the table. For example, a table presenting the heights of male students in a class could be Table 4. Heights (cm) of Male Students.
Table 4. - Identifies the information as the fourth table of the paper or presentation.
Heights (cm) - Identifies a variable and unit of measurement.
Male Students - Identifies a second variable that was measured.
Columns - Columns are the vertical components of a table. Often, each variable is placed into its own column and center justified.
Rows - Rows are the horizontal components of a table. Often, each row either designates the measurements of an individual or the frequency (occurrence) of a certain group.
Headings - Headings state both the measurement and the unit of the variable. Often, the headings are placed into the first row of each column just below the title.
Above: A generalized data table showing the location of the title, headings and values.
Data can fall within two general types: qualitative or quantitative.
Qualitative (or categorical) data involves data that that is nonnumerical. A common type of qualitative data for this course classifies humans into two sexes: males and females. (The third sex classification, intersex, is usually only included when necessary). Another example of categories that are often used include positions in sports (attack, defense, outfield, skill-positions, etc.).
Quantitative data involves data this is numerical. Tools and measuring devices are typically used to determine the numerical value of the measurement. The accuracy and precision of the measurement is strongly impacted by both the tool that is used as well as the ability of the individual to use the tool properly.
The construction of a data table is dependent upon what data is to be presented. For this course, there will be a variety of different tables. A few common data tables include:
Tables Showing Data That is Placed in Categories
The measurements of a variable for each individual that fits into a category are listed.
The title is stated above the table.
The heading for each category is provided.
All measurements that fall into a category are listed below the heading for the category.
All values are reported to the same number of decimal places.
Above: A table showing pulse rates for 16 females and 16 males. Horizontal lines were used to help delineate the title and headings from the raw data. The data is presented horizontally to save space vertically.
Tables Showing Quantitative Data of Individuals
Each row includes the measurements of two or more variables of each individual.
The title is stated above the table.
The heading for each variable is stated in its own column of one row.
Each row includes the measurements of each variable for one individual.
All values within a column are reported to the same number of decimal places.
Above: A table showing raw data for quantitive data. Notice that the number of decimal points for each measurement within a column agree.
Frequency Distribution Tables
A frequency distribution table presents how the data is partitioned based upon the established categories or classes (range of a quantitative variable). The frequency can be presented as either the number of values that fall within the category or class, or the relative frequency (the percentage) of measurements that fall within the category or class.
The title is stated above the table.
The heading of the category or class is stated in the first column.
All categories or classes are listed below the heading.
If classes are used, the ranges should be of equal range and organized in increasing order (smallest numerical value at the top of the column).
The frequency or relative frequency is stated in the second column.
All corresponding values or percentages for each category or class are listed below the heading.
Above: A frequency distribution table showing the number of females that fall within a certain height range (class).
Above: A relative frequency distribution table showing the percentage of females that fall with a certain height range (class).
Tables Presenting Summaries of Data
Summary tables consolidate descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation, range, etc.) and/or other values that have been determined..
The title is stated above the table.
Categories or classes, with a heading, are listed in the first column.
The sample size, n, is usually included to state how many individuals were measured.
Headings for the descriptive statistics and/or other values are placed in adjacent columns.
All values within a column are reported to the same number of decimal places.
Above: A table summarizing the VO2 max values for various sports. Only the relevant information related to the measurements are included for each group, including the mean, standard deviation and the sample size.
Report abuse