When thinking of non-textual insertions, a good definition is that a table is made up of rows and columns; anything else is a figure.

Your statement effectively distinguishes between tables and figures in terms of their structure and definition. A table is organized in a grid format, with data arranged in rows and columns, facilitating easy comparison and analysis of quantitative information. On the other hand, figures encompass a broader range of visual representations, including graphs, charts, and images, which do not adhere to the strict row-and-column format.

This differentiation is crucial in both academic and professional settings, as it aids in selecting the appropriate type of representation for data presentation and analysis. Understanding the characteristics and uses of tables versus figures enhances clarity in communication, ensuring that the intended message is conveyed effectively to the audience. Using tables typically allows for precise display of numerical data, while figures can provide a more generalized or illustrative representation of trends and relationships within the data.