Table layout principles

Tables show complex data in columns that users can sort and scan. While lists show one type of information per row, tables help users compare different aspects of items side by side, making it easy to spot patterns and relationships in data.

Key guidelines from Apple HIG:

• Column headers: Makes each column's purpose clear and enables sorting
• Content rules: Aligns different data types consistently — text starts from left, numbers align right
• Column order: Puts most important information in leftmost columns
• Size flexibility: Sets minimum column widths that keep text readable when resizing
• Scroll behavior: Supports both up-down and side-to-side scrolling for large datasets
• Fixed headers: Keeps column titles visible when scrolling through a long table