1. Microsoft Office
WORD - TABLES

2. Why tables? Visual representing a spectrum of information
Easier to read than text in paragraph form
Easy to manipulate data
Easy to compare data when based on time, style
Tables can be easily incorporated into research papers, PowerPoint presentations, overheads

3. Table Information Columns, rows Merge, split cells Sort Titles
Format on page or in document
Tables vs. charts

4. Columns Columns run vertically (up and down)
Width can be changed several ways
Columns need titles

5. Rows Rows run horizontally (across the page)
Most rows will need titles in the left column of the table.
Row height can be adjusted several ways.

6. Merging Cells Merging cells is to join two or more cells together
Done many times when title of table is to be centered on row 1
Merging of cells can be done anywhere in table

7. Split Cells Cells can be split (divided into two or more parts)
Splitting can be done several ways
It can be done in one or more cells at the same time
Useful when one column can serve with two titles (i.e. men/women)

8. Sorting Useful tool when comparing data
NOTE: Be careful to include all data to be included in the sort.
Examples of sorts: alphabetic, numeric, date, totals

9. Titles Titles are needed to inform readers of data presented
Titles will ALWAYS be in each column
They will NOT always be on each row
Examples of titles: Name, date, total, position, address

10. Formatting a Table
Under format/table properties tables can be centered, left aligned, etc.
Tables can be unlocked so that text can be written around, above or below data

11. Tables and Charts Charts can be made from tables
Tables in Excel are easily converted to graphs/charts
Tables in WORD can be put into text

12. Wrapping Up Tables
Tables have the purpose of putting text information into a visual format.
Merging, splitting cells aid in the reading of tables.
Sorting data allows for manipulation of data for ease of reading.
Tables can be converted to a variety of other software mediums.