Data Table Examples
Some examples of data tables are shown below the text. Notice that each of them follows the conventions described.
Components of a Data Table
All data tables should have the following components:
All data tables should have the following components:
- Title: The title describes the variables and what is being measured. If you are constructing a data table comparing different types of activities on heart rate, your title would read "The Effect of Different Physical Activities on Heart rate"
- Variables: A variable is something that changes in an experiment. There are two types of variables: The independent variable is the variable that you control or manipulate. The dependent variable is the variable that changes as a result of you manipulating or changing the independent variable. All data tables have at least one independent variable and at least one dependent variable. If you are doing a science experiment, your data table should also include the control, the trial where the independent variable was not introduced or changed.
- Measurable Unit: For the data table to have meaning, use a measurable unit to compare the two variables. Examples of measurable units would be time (hours, minutes, seconds), length (centimeters, inches, miles) or degrees (Fahrenheit, Celsius). In our example, we are comparing the effect of four different types of activities on heart rate, so we would use beats per minute as our unit of measure.
- Repeated Trials: When comparing the variables, include at least three trials for each activity. Conducting more than one trial helps you to find an average and reduces the possibility of experimental error. For example, measure the heart rate for "walking" at least three different times. After completing three "walking" trials get an average heart rate for the walking activity. Repeat this step for each activity.
- Using a ruler for a straight edge, draw a grid leaving enough spaces for the data.
- At the top of the data table, write your title identifying the variables and what you are measuring. The title should also include the table number in the title. (e.g., “Table 2: The Influence of Colored Light on Plant Growth”)
- Label rows with the independent variable.*
- Label the columns with the dependent variables (the measurable effect resulting from changing the independent variable). Remember to include enough columns to record the number of trials performed as well as a column for the average of the trails if the data was quantitative.*
- Collect data and record in the appropriate box.
- Check data table for completeness or errors.
