Tables and Graphs

To set up tables and graphs first identify your independent and dependent variables.  In a graph, the independent variable is the X-axis and the dependent variable is the Y-axis.  For an on-line graphing tool, see bottom of page.

Setting up a table:

In your experiment you should be doing more than one trial.  The trials are set up along one side of your table usually along the top.  Your independent variable is set up along an adjacent side to your trials, usually along the left side.  Your data is recorded inside the table. How extensive your table is depends on your individual experiment. A basic data table example is shown below:

Setting up a graph:

To set up a graph use your table that you created.  The X –axis is your Independent variable and the Y - axis is your dependent variable. In the table above that would be the different acids. The data that you graph is what you recorded inside the table, the responding variable. (SEE BELOW)  The type of graph that you create depends on the type of data that you collected.  If you took measurements over time, where you recorded data every so many seconds, minutes, or days, you may want to set up a line graph.  The time would go along the x- axis.    (See below for ON-LINE GRAPHING TOOL)

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On-Line Graphing tool