FAQ: How should I format a table in Chicago Style?

To find specific instructions on how to format a table using Chicago citation style, use the Online Chicago Manual of Style Online, 18th edition This link opens in a new window.

Chapter 3 (Illustrations and Tables) This link opens in a new window sections 3.48 This link opens in a new window-3.89 in the manual covers the parts of a table, cell alignment, formatting, notes, and editing table content.

Here is some basic information for all tables:

• Explain your table in the previous paragraph in your research paper.
• Add the table immediately after your description. (See 3.52: Placement of tables relative to the text This link opens in a new window)
• Add a number before each table. Here’s an example: Table 1, Table 2. (See 3.51: Table numbers and text references This link opens in a new window)
• Add a source line at the bottom of the table. The format is like a footnote. (See 3.78: Acknowledging data in source notes to tables This link opens in a new window)
• Add a citation to your bibliography.

More Information

• Chicago Style (Shapiro Library)
• Tables This link opens in a new window (U of Chicago Press)

Disclaimer

This information is intended to be a guideline, not expert advice. Please be sure to speak to your professor about the appropriate way to cite sources in your class assignments and projects.

References

University of Chicago. (2017). The Chicago Manual of Style. Chicago: University of Chicago Press.