Do cross-references drift when layouts change—or worse, raise compliance flags at the last minute? In this lesson, you’ll build a durable figure-numbering system, write neutral, regulator-safe references, and align captions so charts and text connect cleanly. You’ll find crisp explanations, finance-native examples, and targeted exercises to validate your approach. Finish with a checklist that tightens sequencing, wording, and accessibility—ready for audit and sign-off.