Define tabulation. Describe different parts of a table. What precautions would you observe in constructing a statistical table.
Define tabulation. Describe different parts of a table. What precautions would you observe in constructing a statistical table.
Ans.
Rules for Construction of Statistical Tables
There are no hard and fast rules for constructing a table. Common Sense is the chief requisite and experience the chief teach for making tables. However, the following rules and precautions must be followed at the time of preparing tables-
(1) Title- For every table a brief, clear and full title should be given so that it becomes clear for the data relate to which subject, which time and the basis of classification.
(2) Columns and Rows- Number of columns and rows should be decided keeping in consideration the objective of presentation of raw data. Large number of columns makes the problem complex and unclear. Serial number should be written on each column. The captions of columns and stubs of rows must be clear and concise. The measurement or valves approximated be mentioned and written therein.
(3) Rulings- Important columns should be made by drawing bold or double lines so as to attract attention of the viewers. The columns of less important information be drawn by light lines.
(4) Comparison- It should be kept in mind that comparable data be written together nearby.
(5) Derivatives- Percentages, ratios, coefficients, averages etc. be written near the original data for which these wore derived.
(6) Arrangement of Items- The various items in a table should be suitably and logically arranged according to their importance, size. time, place. These items be arranged either alphabetically or geographically. The data which are unimportant or are of miscellaneous nature be presented in miscellaneous column.
(7) Special Emphasis- The information of special importance should be written either in bold letters or in italic letters so as to attract attention of the viewers.
(8) Unit and Approximation- Unit of measurement and the extent of approximation should either be written above the table or with the captions of concerning column.
(9) Footnotes- Proper footnotes are used only if there is necessity to call attention to some figures or headings which need to be clarified.
(10) Sources- The sources from which the data have been taken should be mentioned eithers on the left hand side or right hand side below the bottom line of the table.
(11) Total- Totals and subtotals in the tables should be so arranged that the totals of columns and rows tally with each other and are verified.
(12) General Rules- In addition to the above rules, the statistician should also follow the general principles. The size of table should be decided on the basis of the size of paper available. If the data are very large, the same must be presented in several tables. Every table must be complete, easy, clear, economical and understandable.
In short, the process of tabulation is not easy. According to Harry Jerome, ‘To prepare a first class table, one must have a clear idea of the facts to be presented, the contrast to be stressed, the points upon which emphasis is to be placed and lastly, a familiarity with the technique of preparation. A good statistical table is a truimph of ingenuity a technique, a masterpiece of economy of space combined with a maximum of clearly presented information.
No doubt, the construction of a good table depends upon the ability, experience and common sense of the statistician as has rightly been said by Dr. Bowley, “In (collection and) tabulation, common sense is the chief requisite and experience the chief teacher”.
