Include:
~the standard deviation and significance of differences in your data (add bars and asterisks to Figures, and add the SD and p-values to Tables)
~the correct number of significant figures in your Tables
~clear column headings and row labels so that the reader can understand what is being compared in a Table, and clear labels for the x- and y-axis in Figures. Also include units for quantifiable data (e.g. hours, mg/mL, etc)
~references for any data generated by another laboratory or published in a previous study
~a title for all Tables and Figures, given above the tables and in the legends for figures
~all text in a font size large enough for the reader to see clearly (generally at least 8 pt Times New Roman, preferably 10 pt)
~a key or legend to the side or within the figure indicating which lines correspond to which data (alternatively, you can include this information in the Figure Legend, but including it on the figure makes it easier for the reader)
*Be sure to mention all of your Tables and Figures in the text, and in order (Fig. 1A should appear before Fig. 1B, and Table 1 before Table 2)
Do not include:
~table columns containing only one repeated value
~more than five lines or curves per graph unless the final size of your graph will be very large
~too many panels per Figure (6 or fewer per figure is preferred)
~figures of poor resolution. Many journals have specific requirements for photographs and line drawings. Be sure to consult the “Instructions for Authors” for your journal while making your Figures.
(Hint: Sometimes it is easier to make the Figures and Tables first, then write the Results section)
