In other words, scatter plots can be used to graph one independent and one dependent variable, or they can be used to plot two independent variables. In cases where one variable is dependent on another for example, height depends partly on age , plot the independent variable on the horizontal x axis, and the dependent variable on the vertical y axis. In addition to correlation a linear relationship , scatter plots can be used to plot non-linear relationships between variables.
Example of a scatter plot: Figure 4. The effect of weather on UFO sightings. The scatter plot shows the relationship between temperature x-axis, independent variable and the number of UFO sightings y-axis, dependent variable for 53 separate data points. It appears that the number of sightings tends to increase as temperature increases, though there are many cases where only a few sightings occur at high temperatures.
Line graphs are similar to scatter plots in that they display data along two axes of variation. Line graphs, however, plot a series of related values that depict a change in one variable as a function of another, for example, world population dependent over time independent.
Line graphs are similar to bar graphs, but are better at showing the rate of change between two points. Line graphs can also be used to compare multiple dependent variables by plotting multiple lines on the same graph. Figure 5. Age of the actor of each Doctor Who regeneration The line graph shows the age in years of the actor of each Doctor Who regeneration for the first through the eleventh regeneration. The ages range from a maximum of about 55 in the first regeneration to a minimum of about 25 in the eleventh regeneration.
There is a downward trend in the age of the actors over the course of the eleven regenerations. Strive for simplicity. Your data will be complex. Your job and the job of your graph is to communicate the most important thing about the data.
Think of graphs like you think of paragraphs—if you have several important things to say about your data, make several graphs, each of which highlights one important point you want to make. Strive for clarity. Make sure that your data are portrayed in a way that is visually clear. Make sure that you have explained the elements of the graph clearly. Consider your audience. Will your reader be familiar with the type of figure you are using such as a boxplot?
Your reader does not want to spend 15 minutes figuring out the point of your graph. Strive for accuracy. Carefully check your graph for errors. Even a simple graphical error can change the meaning and interpretation of the data.
Use graphs responsibly. Placement of figures and tables within the text is discipline-specific. In manuscripts such as lab reports and drafts it is conventional to put tables and figures on separate pages from the text, as near as possible to the place where you first refer to it.
You can also put all the figures and tables at the end of the paper to avoid breaking up the text. Complex raw data is conventionally presented in an appendix. Be sure to check on conventions for the placement of figures and tables in your discipline. You can use text to guide the reader in interpreting the information included in a figure, table, or graph—tell the reader what the figure or table conveys and why it was important to include it.
We consulted these works while writing this handout. Please do not use this list as a model for the format of your own reference list, as it may not match the citation style you are using. Do you have any questions related to writing and publishing your research paper? Divide the data : 7 When presenting large amounts of information, divide the data into clear and appropriate categories and present them in columns titled accurately and descriptively.
Watch the extent of data in your tables : If the data you have to present is extensive and would make the tables too cluttered or long, consider making the tables a part of the Appendix or supplemental material. De-clutter your table : Ensure that there is sufficient spacing between columns and rows 7 and that the layout does not make the table look too messy or crowded.
Ensure image clarity : Make sure that all the parts of the figure are clear: 18 Use standard font; check that labels are legible against the figure background; and ensure that images are sharp. Use legends to explain the key message : 25 Figure legends are pivotal to the effectiveness of a figure. Use them to draw attention to the central message as well as to explain abbreviations and symbols. Label all important parts : Label the key sections and parts of schematic diagrams and photographs, and all axes, curves, and data sets in graphs and data plots.
Give specifics : Include scale bars in images and maps; specify units wherever quantities are listed; include legends in maps and schematics; and specify latitudes and longitudes on maps. This section presents one example each of a well-prepared table and a well-designed figure. The table below is taken from a dietary study on chick-rearing macaroni penguins 26 and is an example of an effective table for the following reasons:.
The column heads are descriptive and clearly indicate the nature of the data presented. It is self-contained and can be understood quite well even without reference to the entire paper.
Superscript letters and notes are used to offer additional, clarifying information. Sufficient spacing is present between columns and rows; the layout is clean, and the font is legible. The figure below from a paper on the efficacy of oyster reefs as natural breakwaters 27 , scores on several counts:. Figures and tables, or display items, are powerful communication tools—they give your man uscript a professional feel, attract and sustain the interest of readers, and efficiently present large amounts of complex information.
You might be interested in checking out this insightful course: Create effective tables for your research paper. Council of Science Editors. Journal Style and Format.
In Council of Science Editors Eds. American Psychological Association. APA Editorial Style. International Committee of Medical Journal Editors. Journal of General Internal Medicine, ; — Durbin CG Jr. Respiratory Care, ; 49 10 : — Reporting Results in Tables and Figures. In Guidelines in the Analysis Phase pp. The Importance of Figures and Tables. Another common mistake is failing to attribute the table.
This should help avoid any issues with plagiarism. The reader is given a chance to understand data through visual content. When writing a research paper, these elements should be considered as part of good research writing. APA research papers, MLA research papers, and other manuscripts require visual content if the data is too complex or voluminous.
The importance of tables and graphs is underscored by the main purpose of writing, and that is to be understood. About Us. Contact Us.
S Samia Nossier. Enago is a very useful site. It covers nearly all topics of research writing and publishing in a simple, clear, attractive way. Ok, thanks. We need additional information from you. Please complete your profile first before placing your order. Go to my profile. Thank you. Payment completed. Check your inbox We've sent your login and password to email domain. There was error during payment. ORCID profile found in public registry. Yes No. Download history close. Legends vs titles One thing that will get the focus of an academic reviewer, is how you tell your reader what your data is.
There are three types that are commonly used: a standard predefined value, a percentage, and a standard deviation. So, to recap: Legends underneath graphs Legends above tables Never repeat data Tables and graphs do not contribute to word count Graphs need to be clear, precise and efficient Do not use the default style when producing graphs Scientists need to use the right type of error bar, and keep them the same across data sets Check the basics of the graph so that everything is colloquial and as it should be Make sure tables are neat and clear Note: The graphs have used the same data to showcase the comparisons with no other variables.
Need help?
0コメント