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Visuals: Figures, Images, and Tables

Clearly label and reference all visual elements within the course to ensure clarity and accessibility. Rather than labeling visuals sequentially (e.g., Figure 1), place descriptive titles below the visual. If appropriate, include the attribution for the visual after the title.

Titles of figures are written in title case and italicized.

Example:

Figure: Stages of the Water Cycle. Image credit: NASA, public domain.

“Figure: Stages of the Water Cycle. Image credit: NASA, public domain.”

For consistency, label visuals according to the following categories:

  • A figure is any visual that conveys data, relationships, or a processes, including graphs, maps, diagrams, and infographics.
  • An image refers to photographs, illustrations, and screenshots.
  • A table contains data structured in rows and columns.