Communicating Scientific Data: Graphs, Tables, and Figures

Scientific research becomes meaningful only when it is communicated clearly. In science, data presentation is not just for decoration; it helps in analysis and understanding. The way data is arranged and displayed affects how well readers understand patterns, trends, comparisons, and relationships. This module explains how scientific data can be presented using text, tables, and figures.

Importance of Communicating Scientific Data

Scientific data may include measurements, observations, survey results, experimental findings, or statistical summaries. Even good research can look weak or confusing if the data is not presented properly.

Effective communication ensures:

• Clarity
• Accuracy
• Credibility
• Transparency
• Easy understanding

Researchers must decide whether data should be explained in text, shown in tables, or displayed through figures.

1. Text is useful when results are simple and can be explained in one or two sentences.
2. Tables are used when exact numerical values are important.
3. Figures are best when we want to show trends, patterns, or relationships.

Choosing the correct format improves understanding.

Tables in Scientific Communication

Tables arrange data in rows and columns. They help readers compare exact numbers easily. Tables are commonly used in lab reports, research papers, and survey studies.

Tables are especially useful for:

• Raw data
• Calculations
• Grouped observations
• Statistical results

Structure of a Good Table

• A proper table should include:
• Table number
• A clear title placed above the table
• Column headings with units
• Well-organized data

Tables should be numbered in the order they appear in the text (Table 1, Table 2, etc.), and they must be mentioned in the paragraph.

Example

Table 1. Effect of Light Intensity on Plant Growth

This table clearly shows that plant growth is highest in full sunlight and lowest without sunlight. Tables allow accurate comparison of numbers, which is difficult to show clearly in a paragraph.

Figures in Scientific Communication

• Figures include:
• Graphs
• Charts
• Diagrams
• Maps
• Photographs

Unlike tables, figures focus more on visual understanding rather than exact numbers. A good figure allows readers to quickly understand the main result.

Rules for Figures

• Each figure must have a number (Figure 1, Figure 2, etc.).
• The caption should be placed below the figure.
• Axes must be labeled clearly.
• Units must be mentioned.
• The figure should be simple and clear.
• Figures must also be explained in the text. Never insert a figure without discussing it.

Graphs

1. Bar Graph 

Bar graphs are used to compare different categories. Each bar represents one category, and the height of the bar shows the value.

Bar graphs are useful when comparing separate groups in experiments.

Figure 1. Comparison of Yield Across Experimental Groups

For example, if Group B has the tallest bar and Group C has the shortest, we can quickly see which group performed better. The visual comparison makes differences easy to notice.

2. Line Graph 

Line graphs show changes over time or continuous data. The points are connected by a line, which shows trends clearly.

Figure 2. Plant Growth Over Time

For example, if plant growth increases each day, the line will move upward. This shows a steady increase. Line graphs help us understand trends and rates of change.

3. Histogram 

Histograms show how data is distributed over a range. They are used for continuous data, such as marks or ages.

Unlike bar graphs, histogram bars touch each other because the data represents intervals.

Figure 3. Distribution of Test Scores

If most bars are in the middle range, it shows that many values fall in that range. This helps us understand variation and distribution.

4. Scatter Plot 

Scatter plots show the relationship between two numerical variables. Each point represents one observation.

If the points move upward from left to right, it suggests a positive relationship. For example, as study hours increase, marks may also increase.

Figure 4. Relationship Between Study Hours and Marks

Scatter plots help identify correlation between variables.

Pie Chart Example

Figure 5. Percentage Distribution of Categories

Pie charts show proportions of a whole and must total 100%. They are suitable for representing percentage contribution.

 Ethical and Practical Considerations

• Scientific visuals must be honest and accurate.
• Do not change scales to exaggerate results.
• Always label axes clearly.
• Always include units.
• Avoid unnecessary design elements.
• Do not use too many colors or decorations.
• Tables and figures must be explained in the text. Simply inserting them is not enough. Writers must explain what the data shows and why it is important.

Conclusion

• Effective scientific communication depends on proper presentation of data.
• Tables provide exact numbers and accurate comparison.
• Figures help show trends and relationships.
• Text explains and interprets results.
• Clarity, simplicity, and accuracy are essential in all scientific data presentation.

Reference:

https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/figures-and-charts/ 

Expert Lecture: Skills for the Future: Navigating the 21st Century by Dr. Sahdev Luhar

Expert Lecture

On

Skills for the Future: Navigating the 21st Century

By Dr. Sahdev Luhar, Associate Professor, Central University of Gujarat

 Today, on 11th January, the School of Arts (English), Bista Munda Tribal University organized an expert talk titled “Skills for the Future: Navigating the 21st Century” delivered by Dr. Sahdev Luhar, Associate Professor at the Central University of Gujarat. The session aimed to equip students with essential skills that extend beyond classroom learning, enabling them to explore diverse fields and prepare themselves for a rapidly evolving world.

Sir emphasized that in the 21st century, flexibility and adaptability are crucial. He highlighted the importance of continuously updating oneself in response to advancements in technology, media, and other emerging domains. According to him, learners today must be open to acquiring multiple skills simultaneously to stay relevant in a dynamic global environment.

During the session, he discussed the 12 skills of 21st-century learners, commonly identified in educational research. These skills are broadly categorized into learning skills, literacy skills, and life skills. They focus on critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, communication, information literacy, media literacy, technology literacy, flexibility, leadership, initiative, productivity, and social skills. Together, these competencies prepare students to thrive in the digital age and succeed in an ever-changing workforce.

He also emphaised to have skills to seperate facts from fiction means to be aware of misinformation in the time of overloaded inforamtion. That's the basic literacy one should posess in the age of information.

He explained each skill with clear and practical examples, helping students understand their significance for the future. The session was highly interactive, with students actively participating by asking and answering questions, which made the discussion engaging and insightful.

The talk was organized by Dr. Pankaj Rathod sir, Assistant Professor of English. We extend our sincere gratitude to our respected Principal, Dr. Amit Kumar Dholakiya sir, for his constant support and encouragement. We are also deeply thankful to Dr. Sahdev Luhar sir for sharing his valuable insights and life skills with our students. 

We believe that the knowledge imparted during this session will serve as a guiding light in shaping their future careers.

Thanks for Reading...

Scientific Report

What is Scientific Report Writing?

Scientific report writing is a structured method of communicating research findings concisely and objectively, typically following the IMRAD (Introduction, Methods, Results, and Discussion) format.

Scientific reports have two primary goals:

1. To gather the information presented.

2. To know that the findings are legitimate.

The purpose of a science report is to clearly communicate your key message about why your scientific findings are meaningful. In order to do this, you need to explain why you are testing a hypothesis, what methodology you used, what you found, and why your findings are meaningful.

A scientific report should conform to the following general arrangement:

1. Title

2. Abstract

3. Introduction

4. Materials and Methods

5. Results

6. Discussion

7. References

TITLE: It should clearly and briefly indicate what the report is about. The title is never a complete sentence, and articles (a, an, the) are usually omitted. Use title case capitalisation.

ABSTRACT: It should be no longer than 200 words and should include the main objectives, findings (i.e., results), and conclusions. A reader should be able to grasp the full scope and significance of the work reported without having to read the entire report.

INTRODUCTION: It discusses the theoretical background to the investigation and places the present work in context. Relevant references should be cited and the reader’s attention moved from the general to the specific. The aims of the present study should be clearly stated at the end of the introduction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This section should include all information required for an exact repetition of the work performed. Since you are reporting on work already done, it is customary to use the PAST PASSIVE tense. Compare the following:

• PAST ACTIVE: We performed the experiment over three weeks.

• PAST PASSIVE: The experiment was performed over three weeks.

The methods should not be written as instructions to the reader, nor presented as an itemised list. Subheadings may be appropriate. For work conducted in class, a reference to the appropriate practical manual may be enough in this section.

RESULTS: It consists of data and some comments that draw attention to the most significant  aspects of the results. The data are usually presented in tables or graphs, but do not duplicate the data in different formats. Any comment on the results should be quantitative rather than just qualitative; that is, any comments should be backed up with data.

• NO The treatment was more effective.

• YES The treatment was 50% more effective.

DISCUSSION: It is usually the most important section of the report. It should include comments on the results, especially any unexpected results. The results should be compared to the standard value and be explained or justified in light of the original aims.

A scientific report moves from the general to the particular to the general. It begins in the Introduction section with the theory related to the experiment, moves on to the work carried out in the Methods and Results sections, and returns to general ideas in the Discussion section by discussing whether the results obtained are consistent or not with the theory. In many cases, it may be appropriate in the discussion to comment on the suitability of the method used in the experiment.

The conclusions are usually included in the discussion, but they can be separate. If they are separate, the discussion should be summarised and a comment made on the success, or otherwise, of the experiment.

REFERENCES: It should be an accurate listing of all the sources referred to. Entries must conform to the conventions of the referencing system used. Begin the list of references on a new page with the heading ‘References’ centred.

Formating a Report:

Fonts and spacing:

Font should be a minimum of 12 point and double line spacing is recommended unless otherwise specified. Titles and headings may be in bold font. A blank line is usually used between paragraphs, but no indentation is used.

Tables and figures

Tables, graphics, and photos are placed immediately after they are first referred to in the text.  Tables and figures (graphic and photos) should be sequentially numbered in a separate sequence  (i.e., Table 1, Table 2 and Figure 1, Figure 2). In large reports with many chapters, they are sequentially numbered in each chapter (i.e., for Chapter 2 you begin from Table 2.1 and Figure 2.1). In APA 7th style, titles for tables and figures are left aligned above the table. The source of the table or figure should also be included below the figure/table, usually in a smaller font (e.g., 10 point) and aligned at the left-hand margin.

References:

“Formatting Science Reports – The Writing Center – UW–Madison.” The Writing Center, https://writing.wisc.edu/handbook/sciencereport/. Accessed 25 January 2026.

“Scientific Reports – The Writing Center.” The Writing Center, https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/scientific-reports/. Accessed 25 January 2026.

“Writing a Scientific Report.” University of New England, https://www.une.edu.au/library/students/academic-writing/write-essays-reviews-and-reports/write-reviews-reports-and-more/Scientific-report.pdf.

Abstrac & Summary: Scientific Writing

 Hello Reader!!!

This blog explores the basics of Abstract and summary writing in a scientific background. 

What is Abstract Writing?

The word abstract comes from the Latin abstractum, which means a condensed form of a longer piece of writing. 

Abstract writing is creating a concise, standalone summary of a longer work (like a research paper, thesis, or article) that quickly informs readers about the purpose, methods, key findings, and conclusions, allowing them to grasp the essence and decide if they need to read the full text. 

It's a brief overview, usually 150-300 words, that acts as the paper's "shop window," highlighting essential points and keywords without getting into deep detail.

There are two main types of abstract:

 (1) Descriptive and (2) Informative abstract. 

Core Components of Abstract Writing (IMRaD Structure)

Most scientific abstracts follow a structured format, often based on the IMRaD model (Introduction, Methods, Results, and Discussion), even if not explicitly labeled with these headings

• Background/Introduction (Why): 1–2 sentences defining the problem, the context, and the knowledge gap your research addresses.
• Methods (How): 1–2 sentences detailing the approach, experimental design, setting, and participants
• Results (What): 2–3 sentences highlighting the most crucial findings, including key data, trends, and, when applicable, statistics (e.g., p-values, confidence intervals).
• Conclusion/Discussion (So What): 1–2 sentences interpreting the results, explaining their significance, and offering future directions.

What is a Summary?

An informative abstract or Summary is a short summary of the most important points of a book, article, report, or meeting. It is usually 5% to 15% of the original text. Its main purpose is to save time by giving the reader a quick and clear idea of what the original work contains.

Contents of a Summary 

The main difficulty in writing an abstract is deciding what to include and what to leave out. The following points will help:

What to Include

• Purpose: Clearly state why the article or study was written. Mention the main aim or objective.

• Important details: Include only essential names, dates, places, or figures that help in understanding the topic.

• Results or conclusions: Highlight key findings, outcomes of research, surveys, or tests.

• Recommendations or implications: Mention important suggestions or the significance of the findings.

What to Avoid

• Personal opinions: Do not add your own views or judgments.

• New information: Do not compare the work with other books or articles.

• Unnecessary details: Avoid biographical information about the author.

• Examples and illustrations: Detailed explanations and descriptions are not needed.

• Background information: Skip lengthy introductions or anecdotes.

• Reference material: Do not include information from footnotes, tables, or bibliographies.

• Technical language: Avoid jargon that may confuse readers.

Seven Steps to Write an Informative Abstract

1. Read the entire text carefully to understand its overall meaning.

2. Read it again to identify the main ideas. Focus on the first and last sentences of paragraphs, as they usually introduce and summarize key points.

   • Look for signal words such as:

     • Listing words: first, second, finally

     • Cause-and-effect words: therefore, because, as a result

     • Comparison words: however, although, in addition

3. Prepare a rough draft using the main points. At this stage, you may use the original language.

4. Edit the draft by removing unnecessary information and shortening sentences while keeping the main focus.

5. Rewrite the abstract in your own words, using simple and clear language. Check again for accuracy.

6. Avoid phrases that mention pages or sections, such as “the author discusses” or “on page 5.”

7. Mention the source of the original work briefly.

THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN A SUMMARY AND AN ABSTRACT 

The terms summary and abstract are often used interchangeably resulting in some confusion. This problem arises because there are two distinct types of abstracts – descriptive and informative. The informative abstract is another name for a summary; the descriptive is not. The descriptive abstract is usually only 2 or 3 sentences in length, hence it is not a summary or very informative. 

References: 

“Abstract (summary).” Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abstract_(summary). Accessed 24 January 2026.

“Abstract - Writing a Scientific Paper.” Research Guides, 3 December 2025, https://guides.lib.uci.edu/scientificwriting/abstract. Accessed 24 January 2026.

“Difference-between-abstract-and-summary.” Unipa, https://www.unipa.it/dipartimenti/me.pre.c.c./dottorati/oncologiaechirurgiasperimentali/.content/documenti/Difference-between-abstract-and-summary.pdf.

“Writing an Abstract for Your Research Paper – The Writing Center – UW–Madison.” The Writing Center, https://writing.wisc.edu/handbook/assignments/writing-an-abstract-for-your-research-paper/. Accessed 24 January 2026.

Scientific Communication

Scientific Communication (SciComm)

Scientific Communication (SciComm) is the practice of sharing scientific knowledge, methods, and research findings with diverse audiences, including experts, policymakers, and the general public. This communication takes place through various channels such as scientific journals, conferences, media platforms, and digital technologies.

The primary aims of scientific communication are to:

• inform and educate,

• raise awareness,

• influence policy decisions,

• build public trust in science, and

• engage society in scientific discourse.

A key function of scientific communication is bridging the knowledge gap between scientific experts and non-experts. This is achieved through the use of plain language, clear explanations, visuals, and relatable examples, which help make complex scientific ideas understandable, meaningful, and relevant. In doing so, scientific communication fosters scientific literacy and encourages informed decision-making in society.

Understanding Scientific Communication through Science

To understand scientific communication, it is essential first to understand what science is.

What is Science?

Science can be defined as:

“Science is the systematic enterprise of gathering knowledge about the world and organizing and condensing this knowledge into testable laws and theories.”

Science seeks to explain natural phenomena through observation, experimentation, and reasoning. Since scientific knowledge is constantly evolving, it must be communicated accurately and transparently so that others can evaluate, replicate, and build upon it.

Scientific Communication and the Scientific Method

The objective of scientific communication is to accurately and clearly communicate new scientific knowledge. Therefore, it is intimately linked with the scientific method, which provides the foundation for all scientific inquiry.

The Scientific Method

The scientific method generally involves the following steps:

1. Making careful observations of the world

2. Asking questions based on those observations

3. Proposing tentative explanations or hypotheses

4. Using hypotheses to make predictions about unobserved data or phenomena

5. Testing predictions through experiments or further observation

6. Rejecting or modifying hypotheses that fail to predict new observations

Scientific communication ensures that each of these steps, along with their results, is shared transparently and systematically.

The Scientific Communication Path

The process of scientific communication closely follows the research process itself and can be described through the following stages:

1. Defining the research question

2. Gathering relevant information and resources

3. Formulating a hypothesis

4. Performing experiments and collecting data

5. Analyzing the data

6. Interpreting results and drawing conclusions or new hypotheses

7. Publishing and communicating results

At every stage, communication plays a vital role in ensuring clarity, reproducibility, and scholarly dialogue.

Modes of Scientific Communication

Scientific information is communicated through multiple modes, depending on the audience and purpose:

1. Making scientific or technical presentations or posters

2. Writing technical or laboratory reports

3. Writing scientific research papers

4. Writing research or project proposals

5. Sharing data and information through digital and web-based platforms

Each mode requires different levels of detail, technicality, and accessibility.

Importance of Scientific Communication

Effective scientific communication is essential for several reasons:

Addressing Urgent Issues

Scientific communication helps inform the public and decision-makers about critical challenges such as climate change, public health crises, and environmental degradation, enabling evidence-based policies and actions.

Building Transparency and Trust

Since much scientific research is publicly funded, communicating findings openly helps justify this investment and builds public trust in scientific institutions by acknowledging both results and limitations.

Educating and Inspiring

Scientific communication educates non-scientists, improves scientific literacy, and inspires future researchers, innovators, and informed citizens.

Fostering Collaboration

Within the scientific community, clear communication facilitates collaboration across disciplines and contributes to the collective growth of knowledge.

Clarity, Precision, and Objectivity: Click here to read

Conclusion

Scientific communication is a vital bridge between scientific research and society. By following the principles of clarity, precision, and objectivity, scientists ensure that knowledge is shared responsibly, understood widely, and used effectively. In doing so, scientific communication strengthens public trust, supports informed decision-making, and advances both science and society.

References: 

Introduction to Scientific Communication

Scientific Communication

Scientific Communication: Clarity, Precision, and Objectivity

What is Scientific Communication?

Click here to read

Clarity, Precision, and Objectivity

Clarity, Precision, and Objectivity are foundational ideals of scientific communication. These principles ensure that research is presented accurately, ethically, and without bias. While these qualities may appear as stylistic choices in genres such as science fiction—especially hard science fiction—they are essential requirements in scientific writing.

Adhering to these principles maintains credibility and enables other researchers to verify and build upon existing work.

1. Clarity

Clarity involves presenting complex information in a simple, direct, and logical manner so that the audience can understand the message without confusion.

Principles of Clarity:

• Use simple language and short sentences

• Maintain a logical structure

• Define technical terms when necessary

• Prefer active voice where appropriate

Avoid:

• Vague statements

• Wordiness

• Unnecessarily complex vocabulary

Example (Unclear):

“A significant amount of biomass was subjected to an elevated temperature regime for an indeterminate timeframe, eventually leading to a noticeable alteration in molecular structure.”

Example (Clear):

“The plant samples were heated to 100°C for 24 hours, which caused a breakdown of the cellulose structure.”

2. Precision

Precision requires the use of exact and specific language, measurements, and data. It eliminates ambiguity and ensures accurate interpretation.

Principles of Precision:

• Use quantitative data

• Employ standardized units

• Specify conditions clearly

Avoid:

• Vague terms such as some, many, or around

• Colloquial expressions

• Figurative language

Example (Imprecise):

“We collected several water samples near the factory outlet.”

Example (Precise):

“We collected eight 1-liter water samples from the factory outlet pipe (N 34° 03.124', W 118° 18.452') at 10:00 AM on October 26, 2024.”

3. Objectivity

Objectivity means presenting research based solely on evidence and data, without personal opinions, emotions, or bias.

Principles of Objectivity:

• Focus on verifiable data

• Acknowledge limitations

• Present findings fairly and neutrally

Avoid:

• Emotional or persuasive language

• Personal attacks

• Selective presentation of results

Example (Subjective):

“The alarming rise in ocean temperatures is a clear sign that our current environmental policies are a catastrophic failure.”

Example (Objective):

“Data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) indicates an average global sea surface temperature increase of 0.8°C since pre-industrial levels, consistent with climate models.”

Conclusion

Scientific communication is a vital bridge between scientific research and society. By following the principles of clarity, precision, and objectivity, scientists ensure that knowledge is shared responsibly, understood widely, and used effectively. In doing so, scientific communication strengthens public trust, supports informed decision-making, and advances both science and society.