Identify whether your dataset can be arranged into a hierarchical or meaningful order. Examples of meaningful order include chronological (time series), sequential (steps or advances), alphabetical, by rank or importance or significance, and by value (smallest to largest or vice versa).

If some data are derived from other data, the subordinate data should follow (either to the right of, or below) the data from which they were derived. Keep the order the same across a series of related tables.

Some hierarchical or sequential arrangements have associated display conventions. For instance, time series are best displayed horizontally (time advancing across columns), whereas rankings are best displayed vertically (most important in the top row to least important at the bottom).