Better Tables

Are you working on tables for publication and you’d like to improve their presentation and readability? Join us for a 2 part workshop on presenting data effectively in tables.

In part 1, we’ll talk about basic table presentation principles and guidelines on how to effectively organize your data, especially using cognitive psychology to group data and make the tables easier to understand.

In part 2, we’ll learn about the packages that enable you to present data more effectively: the gt package (for R) and the GreatTables package (for Python). Both of these allow you to format and export publication quality tables in a wide variety of formats, including Word, LaTeX, and HTML.

Registration is not open yet! Explore the course materials

Class information

  • Quarters Offered: Spring 2026

  • Dates: April 27, May 4, 2026

  • Time: 12:00 pm-1:30 pm

  • Time commitment: 2 sessions

  • Audience: FH Staff and Faculty wanting to improve their tables for publication.

  • Prerequisites: None

  • Followed by: None

Learning Objectives (LOs)

  • Review basic anatomy of a table

  • Explain cognitive psychology methods to guide viewers through a table

  • Analyze and critique various Table 1s (cohort descriptions)

  • Utilize the GreatTables (Python) or gt (R) packages to format tables for publication

  • Apply cognitive principles from Part 1 to improve a table

  • Export tables to various formats, including Word, LaTex, and HTML

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How often is this workshop taught?

    This class is offered twice a year (currently fall and spring quarters). Check the schedule to see when it will next be offered.

  • Can I work through the materials without taking the class?

    Yes, you can access the course materials on your own any time.

  • Can I get a badge without taking the class?

    You need to complete the live class to get a badge.

  • Can I take the class if I’m not an employee at Fred Hutch?

    The class is open to members of the Cancer Consortium including Fred Hutch, the University of Washington, and Seattle Children’s Hospital.

  • Can I take more than one class at once?

    You can, but we recommend you don’t mix R and Python at the same time, because it can be confusing to switch between the two.

  • Can I take this class more than once?

    You can sign up more than once, but be aware that there is tyspically a waitlist. We will prioritize students who have not taken the class. If there is room you are welcome to take it again.