Table References in Text
In-text table references connect discussion to structured data. The reference should use the table’s real identifier and remain consistent with any numbering system used in the document.
Refer to a table with the same label/number used in its title or caption, such as “Table 3,” and use a stable cross-reference mechanism when available.
Key details
Important caveats
Style Boundary
Capitalization and wording such as “see Table 3” are governed by the publication style; dynamic cross-reference fields are a tool choice, not a grammar requirement.
Further guidance
Identifier
Use the table label and number used by the document, keeping the prose reference consistent with the actual table title/caption.
Reader Context
Integrate the table reference into a sentence that explains what the reader should notice rather than using the reference as a substitute for interpretation.
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.
- Citations, references and sources — ONS Service Manual (opens in a new tab)Office for National Statistics · House-style examples for in-document references to chapters, tables and figures
- Create a cross-reference — Microsoft Support (opens in a new tab)Microsoft Support · Cross-references to headings, figures and other items; dynamic field/hyperlink behavior