Functional Skills Maths: Tables

Read and use data tables

What is a Table?

  • A table organises information into rows and columns.
  • Rows go across (left to right).
  • Columns go down (top to bottom).
  • Find the row and column you need and read the value where they cross.

Reading a Table

  • Always read the heading row and heading column first.
  • Find your row, then move across to the correct column.
  • Example: a table showing attendance — find Monday, read across for the number.

Totals and Calculations

  • You can add up a row or column to find a total.
  • Row total = add all numbers in that row.
  • Column total = add all numbers in that column.

Worked Examples

Example 1: Adding a row

  1. A table shows sales: Mon 12, Tue 15, Wed 13.
  2. Row total = 12 + 15 + 13.
  3. 12 + 15 = 27. 27 + 13 = 40.
  4. Total sales: 40

Example 2: Reading a column

  1. A column shows: Week 1: 20, Week 2: 25, Week 3: 15.
  2. To find the total, add all values: 20 + 25 + 15 = 60.

Practice Questions

  • Apples sold: Mon 10, Tue 15, Wed 8. Total?
    Hint: Add all three together.
    Answer: 33
  • Row values: 12, 14, 16, 10. Total?
    Hint: Add 12+14=26, then 26+16=42, then 42+10.
    Answer: 52
  • Column: 20, 25, 15. Total?
    Hint: 20 + 25 = 45. Then + 15.
    Answer: 60
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