Figures, Tables & Graphics

Ensure figures and tables remain clear and publication-ready after typesetting. The guidance below follows the EII template and common engineering journal practices.

Numbering & in-text callouts

• Number figures in order of appearance as Fig. 1, Fig. 2, … and tables as TABLE I, TABLE II, …
• Every figure/table must be cited in the text using the same numbering (e.g., “see Fig. 2”).
• Place figures/tables near their first citation whenever possible.

Captions

• Figure captions start with “Fig. x.”; table titles go above the table. Captions should be self-contained.
• Explain symbols, abbreviations, color meanings, and key settings (e.g., sample size, conditions, metrics).
• For multi-part figures, label parts as (a)(b)(c) and describe each part in the caption.

Accepted file formats

• Preferred: PDF, EPS, PS, TIFF, PNG, JPEG (use PDF/EPS for vector clarity when available).
• If created in Word/PowerPoint/Excel, strongly consider exporting to PDF to avoid font/stroke issues.
• Submit each figure as an individual file when the system requests separate graphics.

Sizing & layout fit

• Common widths: one-column ~3.5 in / 88 mm; full-page ~7.16 in / 181 mm.
• Max depth ~8.5 in / 216 mm; leave room for the caption.
• Avoid shrinking below single-column width unless necessary; readability must be preserved.

Resolution requirements

• Photos, color, and grayscale figures: at least 300 dpi.
• Line art (including charts/diagrams) and tables: at least 600 dpi, or submit as vector graphics.
• Set resolution at export time; avoid enlarging screenshots.

Vector art & fonts

• For vector files (EPS/PDF/PS), embed fonts or convert text to outlines.
• Use standard fonts inside figures: Times New Roman, Helvetica, Arial, Cambria, or Symbol.
• Choose font sizes and line weights that remain readable in print.

Color, accessibility & integrity

• Color figures should be RGB or CMYK; grayscale figures in grayscale; line art may be grayscale or bitmap colorspace.
• Do not rely on color alone; use line styles/markers for accessibility.
• Do not manipulate images in ways that could mislead (e.g., removing features or hiding information).

Tables

• Tables should be editable text, not embedded images.
• Use clear headers with units in column labels, consistent alignment, and minimal vertical rules.
• If a table is too wide, split/transpose it or move it to supplementary material.

Quick pre-submission checklist

• Readable at 100% zoom (labels, legend, text, line weights).
• Every figure/table is cited in-text and numbering is consecutive.
• Captions are self-contained and define abbreviations/symbols.
• Formats/resolution meet requirements; vector fonts embedded or outlined.