Figures

A figure is any type of illustration that you include in your paper such as charts, graphs, pictures, diagrams, and drawings. Tables are not considered figures because a table is typeset by the publisher, not photographed.

When to use figures

Many authors choose to use figures when they want to convey a pattern of results that would be difficult to see in a table. Figures are also used to supplement text. For example, if you are trying to describe the apparatus used in your experiment, including a picture of the apparatus will help the reader understand what you are trying to say.

How to use figures

Each figure should be identified by a number, in the order that they appear in the text (e.g., Figure 1, Figure 2, etc.). When using a figure, you need to refer to the figure in the text (e.g., "As shown in Figure 1,…") and point out to the reader what they should be looking for in the figure. You should only use a figure if it complements the text, but does not duplicate it. As with tables, you should not explain everything that is in the figure or else the figure is not necessary. Only mention the most important pieces of information from the figure.

Choose the type of figure (e.g., chart, graph, or illustration) that will best convey the point you are trying to get across. You do not have to draw the figure yourself. Feel free to let your computer generate it, especially if you want to include graphs and charts. Make sure that all elements of the figure are large enough to be legible.

Figures should appear at the end of your paper, after any tables. Each figure should have a caption. The caption will serve as the title of the figure and therefore should clearly and succinctly describe the figure. All figure captions should be typed together on a separate page (see [sample paper]). Each figure should appear on a separate piece of paper, but should not include a title or figure number. When ordering your figures, be sure to put the page(s) with the figure captions first and then make sure the figures are in numerical order.