How do you use descriptive statistics to summarize univariate data in a table or report?

1 Choose your variable

The first step is to choose the variable that you want to analyze. Depending on the type and level of measurement of your variable, you will need to use different descriptive statistics. There are four main types of variables: nominal, ordinal, interval, and ratio. Nominal variables are categorical and have no inherent order, such as gender or color. Ordinal variables are also categorical, but have a meaningful order, such as education level or satisfaction rating. Interval variables are numerical and have equal intervals, but no true zero point, such as temperature or IQ score. Ratio variables are also numerical and have equal intervals, but have a true zero point, such as height or income.

3 Create a table or report

The final step is to create a table or report that summarizes your descriptive statistics in a clear and concise way. A table is a visual representation of your data that organizes your descriptive statistics in rows and columns. A report is a written summary of your data that explains your descriptive statistics in sentences and paragraphs. Depending on your purpose and audience, you may choose to use a table, a report, or both. A table is useful for presenting numerical data in a compact and easy-to-read format. A report is useful for interpreting and communicating the meaning and implications of your data.

4 Use appropriate formats

When creating a table or report, you should follow some general guidelines to ensure that your descriptive statistics are presented accurately and consistently. For a table, you should use a title, labels, units, and notes to provide context and clarity for your data. You should also use appropriate decimal places, rounding rules, and alignment for your numbers. For a report, you should use a heading, introduction, body, and conclusion to structure your summary. You should also use proper grammar, punctuation, and style for your sentences and paragraphs.

6 Check your results

The last step is to check your results and make sure that your descriptive statistics are accurate, relevant, and meaningful. You should verify that you have used the correct descriptive statistics for your variable type and level of measurement. You should also check that you have not made any errors in your calculations, formats, or visual aids. Finally, you should review your table or report and make sure that your descriptive statistics answer your research questions, address your objectives, and convey your message.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?