Without the layout elements described in the Report Layout section, you would not be able to create a report at all. These elements contain other content, as well as other layout elements. Layout elements can even be nested, making for a completely unique and custom report.
Because of the large number of layout elements, and the vast number of possibilities each element enables, these tables should help you realize which layout element will fit your specific scenario. Across the top of each table, you will notice the layout elements discussed in detail in the Report Layout section of the help. Laid out vertically along the left side of the table are the elements, contents, or additional settings that each layout element can take advantage of. You will notice that several of the layout elements can be added to themselves.