表格，又称为表，即是一种可视化交流模式，又是一种组织整理数据的手段。人们在通讯交流、科学研究以及数据分析活动当中广泛采用着形形色色的表格。各种表格常常会出现在印刷介质、手写记录、计算机软件、建筑装饰、交通标志等许许多多地方。随着上下文的不同，用来确切描述表格的惯例和术语也会有所变化。此外，在种类、结构、灵活性、标注法、表达方法以及使用方面，不同的表格之间也炯然各异。在各种书籍和技术文章当中，表格通常放在带有编号和标题的浮动区域内，以此区别于文章的正文部分。

A table is a means of arranging data in rows and columns. The use of tables is pervasive throughout all communication, research and data analysis. Tables appear in print media, handwritten notes, computer software, architectural ornamentation, traffic signs and many other places. The precise conventions and terminology for describing tables varies depending on the context. Further, tables differ significantly in variety, structure, flexibility, notation, representation and use. In books and technical articles, tables are typically presented apart from the main text in numbered and captioned floating blocks.