Read time: 5 minutes

Let’s be honest—tables are boring.

They’re dense.
They’re overwhelming.
And worst of all, they hide the real story in the data.

But sometimes, tables are the only option.

So instead of fighting them, enhance them.

Here’s how to transform any wall of numbers into a clear, engaging story using 9 simple techniques.

The Problem with Default Tables

Ever presented a table of data only to have your audience glaze over the numbers?

That’s because default tables don’t highlight what matters.

Raw tables force people to:
❌ Scan every number manually
❌ Hunt for trends
❌ Decipher meaning without any help

And if people have to work too hard to get insights, guess what?
They won’t.

The solution? Use formatting to guide their eyes.

9 Ways to Make Tables Work for You

1. Text & Lines:
Add bold headers and gray lines for better readability.

2. Row Banding:
Use alternating shades to help the eye track across rows easily.

3. Color Text:
Apply color to highlight specific categories or areas of focus.

4. Color Banding:
Use subtle background shading to direct focus to important insights.

5. Icons:
Add Icons to reinforce meaning without adding clutter.

6. Color Sequential:
A gradient color scale shows high vs. low values at a glance.

7. Color Diverging:
Use two contrasting colors to highlight good vs. bad performance.

8. Bars Single-Value:
Add in-table bar charts to show relative performance per row.

9. Bars Multi-Value:
Use embedded bar charts to compare multiple values visually.

Why This Works

✔ Your audience instantly sees what matters, no scanning required.
✔ Comparisons become obvious, no need to crunch numbers manually.
✔ Decision-making speeds up, data is digestible at a glance.

Same table. Same data. Better story.

The Bottom Line

If you’re stuck using tables, don’t just dump numbers on a page.

Make them speak.

Use formatting strategically to highlight key takeaways, and stories so your audience gets the message, fast.

Ready to Master Data Storytelling?

Business leaders need clear, compelling insights, not just more data. At Data Story Academy, thousands of professionals are mastering data storytelling to make their dashboards, slides, reports, and presentations drive real action.

Get instant access to our online courses and tools or reach out to our team to schedule a workshop, keynote, or private coaching.

See you next Tuesday!