This manual is devoted largely to an outline of theory and practice in the presentation of statistical data in tables for publication, illustrated by specific examples throughout. The emphasis is placed upon principles, rather than rules, in order to provide the necessary flexibility required by the varying needs of the several subject divisions of the Bureau. The immediate objectives are as follows:

1. To provide an operating reference manual for the use of analysts and technicians within the Bureau of the Census in connection with the planning and review of statistical tables which are to appear in census publications.
2. To provide a general statement in this field, with specific reference to the standards and practices of the Bureau of the Census, for the convenience of other producers of statistics, of technicians, and of students of the subject.