have little value-added, and if they are included readers may
find them disappointing.
The ‘need to know’ criterion also implies that all tables,
charts, graphs and diagrams should be independently intelligi-
ble so far as is possible, in order to help skim readers make intel-
ligent evaluations, and to aid readers who are referred back to
the exhibit from elsewhere. In addition:
◆ All exhibits will need a unique number derived from a
consistent system including the chapter number first and
then sequence numbers. The normal approach is that tables,
charts and photographs are numbered in separate sequences
(for instance, Table 4.1 and Figure 4.2), as I have done here.
Some authors prefer to label both tables and charts in a
single sequence of figures. Diagrams need to be included
with charts in the figures tally. And if photographs are
integral to your thesis exposition they should also be
incorporated. A few text boxes may not need to be
numbered in their own sequence. But if they are extensive,
cross-referred to a lot from different locations, or play a large
part in the exposition, they may be numbered in their own
sequence. In the social sciences separate numbering is
common where a chapter uses a lot of case studies or case
examples.
◆ Alongside their number, all attention points should have a
clear overall heading or caption which accurately describes
exactly what is being shown.
◆ Full subsidiary labels are also needed inside the exhibit – for
instance, labels for horizontal and vertical axes in charts and
graphs, and clear labels for rows, columns and cell contents
in tables. Labels must spell out precisely what is being
shown, for instance, making clear what units of
measurement are being employed without any ambiguities
or vagueness. It is best to avoid abbreviations if possible.
◆ All charts should have keys showing what their different
types of lines, shadings or colours mean. These keys are
called ‘legends’ in spreadsheet programmes. Legend labels
should also include full details of the measurement units
used where appropriate, or any other aspect that readers
need to know.
HANDLING ATTENTION POINTS◆ 163