comfortably from 2 meters away. Labels should be set in at least 18-point text, upper- and lowercase. Use generous leading on multiline blocks of text.Amount of Labeling
· Use no more than 5–7 words on an average chart axis.
· For multichart formats or composite figures that share a common X or Y axis, eliminate any redundant axis labeling (Fig. 23).Label Content
· Spell out as many of the labels as possible, but be brief. Too many obscure abbreviations and mysterious codes are distracting. Standard abbreviations can be used to keep axis labels short (e.g., % for percentage).
· Axis labels should include both the name of the variable and the unit of measurement. Conventionally, the name of the variable is given first, then the unit of measurement is given immediately next to or below it in parentheses.
· Use units that are complete and easily understood.Label Style
· Use upper- and lowercase lettering.
· Use sans serif typefaces, such as
Helvetica, for all labeling and text.
Tables and Charts
Charts are used to organize numeric or other data without graphic plotting or interpretation, except in the arrangement of numbers in columns and rows. Charts are best used to emphasize actual measured values or a small data set. Large or complex tables are appropriate for print media but are ineffective in slide shows, computer shows, or video graphics. A table must be understandable and complete without detailed reference to the text.
· Line up decimal places, note units clearly, and construct clean, orderly arrangements of rows and columns.
· Highlight important numbers or words by changing the color or size.