Use tables when the reader wants the exact values of more data than can be summarized in a few sentences in the text. Each table should be self-explanatory with an adequate title and a logical presentation of data.
Avoid repetitive words in the columns. Such data should be coded as figures or letters and the code explained in footnotes.
Never present the same data in more than one way; present data in the text, or in a table, or in a figure.
Each column heading for numerical data should include the unit of measurement applied to all the data under the heading. Choose suitable SI units, so that the values given in the table fall within the range 0–999. Large numbers can be expressed in smaller units with appropriate column headings.
Consider carefully the number of digits that should be used for your numerical findings. It is seldom indicated to use more than 2 digits for biologic measurements. Much time is spent in the editorial office crossing out meaningless decimals!
Most tables can be typed in a wordprocessor with tabulation. Avoid using the space bar to improve indentation. Avoid, if possible, spreadsheets (also the one in Microsoft Word) for production of tables because word wraping in cells will be lost in the layout process, which increases the need for manual work and thus the risk of error in the production of proofs.
Acta Orthopaedica 2008 - Last modified: 2010-08-08 - Webmaster: webmaster@actaorthop.org