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. 2019 Apr 24;17(2):e92113. doi: 10.5812/ijem.92113

Box 2. General Tips for Presenting Data in Tables and Figures.

Tips
Give a caption to each element consisting of a number and a title
Avoid using abbreviations in the title of tables or the legend of figures
Keep the table title and figure legend brief but sufficiently detailed to explain the data included
Do not overload the title with details
Put the elements within the text, or include them in the rest of the manuscript; do not use both approaches
Distinguish the element from any appendix materials provided at the end of the manuscript (if placed at the end)
Put each element as close as possible to where it is first mentioned in the text (if placed within the text)
Use an explicit number for each table, figure, etc.
Refer to each element appropriately within the text and if needed explain it
Use parentheses when referring to elements within the text
Have a consistent appearance for the elements, e.g. use a uniform box or frame and a uniform font
Use footnotes or captions to explain any unclear data