Tables


Tables permit data entry and display in row-column format, facilitating comparison of related data sets.

Tables for Related Data Sets

When sets of data items must be entered sequentially, in a repetitive series, provide a tabular display format where data sets can be keyed row by row.

Exception: When the items in each data set exceed the capacity of a single row, tabular entry will usually not be desirable, unless there is a simple means for horizontal scrolling.

Comment: Row-by-row entry facilitates comparison of related data items, and permits potential use of a DITTO key for easy duplication of repeated entries.

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Distinctive Labels

Design distinctive formats for column headers and row labels, so that users can distinguish them from data entries.

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Informative Labels

Ensure that column headers and row labels are worded informatively, so that they will help guide data entry.

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Tabbing within Rows

During tabular data entry, allow users to tab directly from one data field to the next, so that the cursor can move freely back and forth within a row (i.e., across columns).

Tabbing within Columns

During tabular data entry, allow users to tab directly from one data field to the next, so that the cursor can move freely up and down a column (i.e., across rows).
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