The correct design of graphic elements is an integral aspect of scientific research and academic papers. The correct and clear presentation of such materials contributes to clarity and professionalism in the communication of information. It is important to follow the formatting rules for graphical elements such as figures, tables, and formulas to ensure their clarity and effective visual presentation. In this article, we look at the basic principles of proper formatting of graphic materials that will help scientists and authors of scientific articles create a professional look for their research and publications.
Pictures
The following rules should be followed for the correct formatting of graphic materials. The figure and its title should be centered without paragraph indentation, and there should be a blank line between them and the surrounding text. The title and number of the graphic material should be indicated below the image. Each figure must be cited in the text, for example, as follows: (Figure 1).
Graphic elements, such as figures, drawings, diagrams, etc., should summarize the research materials. In addition, they must be unique and of high quality, with a resolution of at least 300 dpi. If you use graphs and charts created with MS Word/Excel, etc., make sure that the data can be edited.
If the graphic material was borrowed from another source, you must explicitly indicate this source below the figure.
Please note that the data in the figure should not duplicate the information presented in the main text or tables. Figures should complement and enrich the materials presented in the paper, not repeat them.
Figure 1. Figure title
Tables
The table name should be centered without paragraph indentation, and there should be a blank line between the name and the table, as well as a blank line between the table and the surrounding text. For the table title, use a 12-point font, and for the text inside the table, use a 10-point font. The text in the table should be horizontal, and the table itself should automatically adjust to the width of the window. The title and number of the table should be placed above the table. Each table must be cited in the text of the paper, for example, as follows: (Table 1).
The data presented in the table must be unique. If the data for the table is taken from another source, you must explicitly indicate this source below the table.
The content of the table should not repeat the main text or information presented in the figures. Tables should supplement and detail the data presented in the paper, not duplicate them.
If the table uses abbreviations or author's designations of parameters, provide appropriate explanations in the form of a note below the table.
Table 1. Table name
| 1 | A | B | C | D |
| 2 | ||||
| 3 |
Notes: 10 pt, italics, width-aligned, no paragraph indentation; additional explanations are provided here.
Source: 10 pt, italics, width alignment, no paragraph indentation; here, a link to the source on the basis of which the graph/table was created is indicated, or it is indicated that the material was compiled/created by the authors.
Formulas
Formulas should be centered, with one blank line at the top and bottom between the text and the formula. All formulas must be submitted in editable form and must be numbered on the right.
In addition, all parameters used in the formulas should be explained in detail. Providing clarity and understanding of the values of the parameters will help the reader to more fully comprehend the essence of the formulas and their application.
Therefore, when designing formulas, it is important to keep formulas centered, add blank lines at the top and bottom of the text, number formulas on the right, and provide decoding of parameters to ensure full understanding.
x = a + b
where: a - first parameter, b - second parameter, x - unknown.
The use of supplementary material is advisable only for the "Materials and Methods" and "Results" sections.
Requirements for technical parameters of the document
- Paper size: А4.
- Margins: 2 cm x 2 cm x 2 cm x 2 cm x 2 cm x 2 cm x 2 cm.
- Line spacing: single.
- Font: Times New Roman; size: 12 pt.
- Paragraph indentation: 1 cm.
- Text alignment: by width.
Any indentation in the text should be done with the Ruler tool, not with the space bar or the Tab key.
The design of graphic materials is a critical step in creating scientific publications. Correct alignment, numbering, and clear presentation of figures, tables, and formulas emphasize their importance and facilitate the perception of information by readers. Ensuring the uniqueness and high quality of graphic materials, as well as providing references to sources, are fundamental aspects that must be taken into account. Adherence to the established design rules facilitates the correct use and interpretation of graphic materials in scientific research and articles, making them more accessible and effective for the scientific community.
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