Use Tables Instead of Words
There are many advantages to using tables on the web. They are straightforward, facilitate the comparison of different data, and allow us to condense content and eliminate unnecessary words. Read about when, how, and why you might consider using tables.
The content below is primarily derived from the book “Letting Go of the Words” by Janice Redish. It’s a worthwhile read on how to write for the web, even if the cover might be among the ugliest ever made.
Tables Are Good for Overview
Tables are effective on the web because they allow us to remove words that do not directly contribute to the information we want to convey. Tables are also more visually organized than paragraphs, enabling visitors to quickly see connections, compare different data, and absorb the information.
Compare the following examples:
Speed Limits in Public Transport
Inside the moat, the speed limit is 30 km/h for trams and buses. At stops, the speed limit is 15 km/h. Outside the moat, the speed limit is 50 km/h, and at stops, it is 20 km/h. On the Götaälv Bridge, the maximum speed is 20 km/h.
| Location | Speed Limit | Speed Limit at Stop |
|---|---|---|
| Inside the moat | 30 km/h | 15 km/h |
| Outside the moat | 50 km/h | 20 km/h |
| Götaälv Bridge | 20 km/h | |
Even for the relatively simple example above, we can see how the information in a table becomes clearer and easier to grasp.
Tables Are Good for Numbers
If you have numbers that you want to compare, tables are often a good option. Columns in a table indicate some form of comparison or relationship. If you have several sentences following the pattern "if, then," it is often appropriate to present the information in a table instead.
Example:
“On purchases under 250 kr, the shipping cost is 50 kr; between 250 kr and 500 kr, the shipping cost is 30 kr. If you shop for over 500 kr, shipping is free.”
| Purchase Amount | Shipping |
|---|---|
| Up to 250 kr | 50 kr |
| 250 kr to 500 kr | 30 kr |
| Over 500 kr | Free shipping |
The previous sentence is a typical example of the "if, then" pattern, and the information can advantageously be presented in a table as shown above. In "if, then" cases, it is important that the "if" part forms the left column and the "then" part the right.
Appearance
When it comes to the appearance of tables, there are a few things to consider.
- Ideally, tables should not be wider than necessary so that visitors do not have to scroll horizontally to see the entire table.
- Avoid overly long tables. To understand how information in a table relates to each other, column headers are used at the top of each column. In a table with many rows, there is a risk that the entire table will not fit on the screen, making it harder to use.
- By formatting your table correctly in terms of appearance, you make it easier for visitors to engage with the information. Avoid thick lines between columns or around cells in the table, as tables are used to see relationships across a row.