Figures and tables in lab reports: a consistency checklist
Every visual needs a stable label, enough context to locate the evidence, and values that agree with the source data and narrative.
Give each item one stable identity
Number figures and tables independently in the required order and update every callout after reordering. Introduce each item by label and purpose instead of leaving an orphan visual.
Make captions self-locating
Identify the measured relationship, conditions, units, sample size, symbols, and variability definition needed to understand the visual. Keep interpretation separate when the caption does not contain evidence for it.
Check axes, headers, and scale
Name each variable and unit. Verify logarithmic axes, scientific-notation multipliers, SI prefixes, legends, and fitted equations against the calculation source.
Trace prose back to cells and plots
For each narrative number or trend, identify the exact table cell, plotted series, or derived statistic. Explain legitimate rounding and confirm the sample and condition, not only the numeric token.
- Match labels before values.
- Define SD, SEM, confidence intervals, and n.
- Recheck references after renumbering.
Sources and boundaries
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Solice develops LabCrux. The independent sources above do not sponsor or endorse the product. This page explains a review method; your experimental evidence, course instructions, and instructor remain authoritative.