Design of data tables in tropical and temperate ecology journals
Fellowship Year:
2022
Degree:
MEM
Research Country:
USA
Research Continent:
North America
Abstract:
Tables help readers to quickly recognize patterns or outliers in the data or to easily extract specific values. Thus, if well-designed, tables can guide viewers along the process of understanding the data and ensure that they draw the intended conclusions. However, previous research has detailed that in fields, such as public policy, statistics, and business, data visualization guidelines for table design are not consistently adhered to. The goal of this study is to analyze the extent to which tables published in recent issues of various ecology journals follow best practice principles for table design, as well as provide general suggestions regarding how table design in the field of ecology could be improved.