Describing Data Distributions

1. Remember the objectives. Statistics are designed to suppress detail and reveal important findings.
2. Always identify the scale types. The nature of the scale determines, in part, the proper descriptive measures.
3. Treat variables both ways. Continuous items with only a few scale values can be treated as categorical.
4. Portray information when feasible. Showing the entire distribution is more effective than describing it.
5. Describe data with care. The shape of the distribution affects the choice and interpretation of descriptions.
6. Begin with data description. Organize and interpret the descriptions of individual variables before turning to measures of association.
7. Choose the best average. Consider both the type of scale and the shape of the distribution when selecting the best average.
8. Assess confidence carefully. Choose an appropriate level of probability for determining confidence intervals.