Interpreting a table means reading the information shown in rows and columns and understanding what the data tells you. Tables organize data so it is easier to see patterns, compare values, and answer questions.
| Day | Apples Sold |
|---|---|
| Monday | 15 |
| Tuesday | 20 |
| Wednesday | 12 |
Question: On which day were the most apples sold?
Answer: Tuesday (20 apples).
Always look carefully at the table’s labels (the headings for rows and columns) to understand what the numbers represent.
To read a table, use the headings to find out what each row and column shows. Then match a row with a column to find the data point you need.
Think of the table like a grid: the row and column meet to give you the information you need.
Tables can help answer many types of questions. You can find exact amounts, compare two categories, or add values together to make conclusions.
Always reread the question to know if you are finding one value, comparing values, or adding them together.
Tables can also show patterns or trends when you look at the numbers closely. Patterns can help you make predictions or better understand the data.
| Day | Books Read |
|---|---|
| Monday | 2 |
| Tuesday | 4 |
| Wednesday | 6 |
Pattern: The number of books read increases by 2 each day. Prediction: On Thursday, 8 books might be read.
Looking for a pattern helps you notice how the data changes over time or across categories.