Writing & StyleStyle guide
Table Numbering
A lone table on a webpage may not need a number. In content with repeated tables, number them consistently and use the same number in the table title and in-text references.
Number tables when readers need to distinguish or cross-reference multiple tables; keep the number consistent between the title and the text.
Key details
Core Issuewhen and how to number tables
Registerstructured, professional, and digital writing
Important caveats
Boundary
Do not add numbering merely by habit to a simple page with a single table when no cross-reference is needed.
Further guidance
Cross Reference
Make the table number in the surrounding text match the number in the table title.
When To Number
Repeated tables benefit from numbering so a specific table can be referenced unambiguously.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- Tables — Australian Government Style Manual (opens in a new tab)Australian Government Style Manual · Table notes, data-source notes, alignment, numbering, titles, and in-text table references