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/