Be able to create a table with a specified number of rows and columns using a word‑processor or spreadsheet application.
Key Concepts
A table is a grid of cells arranged in rows and columns.
The number of rows is denoted by \$r\$ and the number of columns by \$c\$.
Each cell can contain text, numbers, or other data.
Tables have three main parts:
Header – usually the first row, describes the data in each column.
Body – the remaining rows that hold the main data.
Footer – optional, often used for totals or summary information.
Steps to Create a Table
Open the application (e.g., Microsoft Word, LibreOffice Writer, Google Docs).
Locate the Insert menu and choose Table.
Enter the required number of rows \$r\$ and columns \$c\$ in the dialog box, then confirm.
Enter headings in the first row (the table header).
Populate the remaining cells with the required data.
Adjust column widths or row heights if necessary for readability.
Save the document.
Example: 3 × 4 Table
The following example shows a table with \$r = 3\$ rows (excluding the header) and \$c = 4\$ columns.
Item
Quantity
Unit Price (£)
Total (£)
Notebook
5
2.00
10.00
Pen
10
0.50
5.00
Ruler
2
1.20
2.40
Suggested diagram: Visual representation of a table grid with \$r\$ rows and \$c\$ columns.
Practice Activity
Create a table that records the weekly timetable for a student. The table should have:
7 columns – one for each day of the week (Monday to Sunday).
5 rows – one header row for the days and four rows for the periods (Period 1 to Period 4).
Use the steps above to construct the table in your chosen application. When finished, answer the following questions:
How many total cells does the table contain?
If you needed to add a “Break” column between Period 2 and Period 3, how many columns would the table have?
Write the LaTeX expression for the total number of cells in terms of \$r\$ and \$c\$.
Answer Key (for teacher)
Question
Answer
1. Total cells
\$7 \times 5 = 35\$ cells
2. Columns after adding “Break”
8 columns
3. General formula
\$\text{Total cells}= r \times c\$
Common Mistakes to Watch
Confusing the number of rows with the number of data rows – remember the header row also counts as a row.
Leaving empty cells unintentionally; every cell should contain appropriate data or a placeholder (e.g., “–”).
Not adjusting column widths, which can make the table difficult to read.
Summary
Creating a table involves specifying the required number of rows \$r\$ and columns \$c\$, inserting headings, and filling in data. Mastery of this skill supports effective presentation of information in ICT tasks and examinations.