Definition
Column
A column is a vertical sequence of cells, entries, or objects in a table, grid, or rectangular array.
Continue from this idea into connected AXIO math.
Columns climb; rows run across.
Boundary: A tall pile is not automatically a mathematical column; the items must occupy matching vertical positions in an organised table, grid, or array.
What it means
Columns go up and down. In a table, look at the heading above a column to learn what every entry below it means. In an array, count the vertical stacks rather than reading across.
Remember it
Columns climb; rows run across.
Example
Arrange 12 counters in three vertical columns. Each column has four counters, so the array shows 3 × 4 = 12.
Watch for
A tall pile is not automatically a mathematical column; the items must occupy matching vertical positions in an organised table, grid, or array.
Common mix-up
A row runs horizontally across; a column runs vertically up and down.
Exact meaning
A column is a vertical sequence of corresponding positions in a table, grid, matrix, or rectangular array. In a data table, a column heading identifies what the entries below it represent; in a rectangular array, each column contains the same number of positions.