Presentation of Data — Economics STD 11 Commerce — Question

After the collection of data, the next step is to present them in some suitable form-statistical table is one of them. Tabulation enables the numerical facts to be presented in such a way that their analysis, interpretation and subsequent computation become easier. Decision makers neither have the opportunity nor have enough time to go through bulky data. They want the information in a precise form so that conclusions can be want the information in a precise form so that conclusions can be drawn from them without much wastage of time and energy. Tabulation is thought to be useful tool in this respect. The condensed facts presented in table can be easily visualized and the needed information can be easily sorted out. The comparability of the data increases significantly when they are placed side by side in a table. This also helps the establishment of relationship between different phenomena. Tabulation paves the way for further condensation of the data by presenting them in suitable forms for mathematical treatment. Statistics is the study of large numbers. The study of a large number of cases is difficult unless some process of condensing the information is available The principal objectives of tabulation are stated below:

1. To make complex data simple: When data are arranged systematically in a table, such data become more meaningful and can be easily understood.
2. To facilitate comparison: When different data sets are presented in tables it becomes possible to compare them.
3. To economize space: A statistical table furnishes maximum information relating to the study in minimum space. Statistical tables conserve space and reduce explanatory and descriptive statements to a minimum.
4. To make data fit for analysis and interpretation: Tabulation serves as a link between the collection of data on the one hand and analysis of such data on the other. In other words, after tabulating the data, it becomes possible to find out their averages, dispersion and correlation. Such statistical measures are necessary for their interpretation.
5. To provide reference: A statistical table can be used as a source of reference for other studies of similar nature.
6. Memorizing effect: The visualization of relations and process of comparison are greatly facilitated by tables. Tabulated data can be more easily remembered than data that are not tabulated.
7. Facilitates Detection of errors: A tabular arrangement facilitates the summation of items and the detection of errors and omissions and Statistical tables provide a basis for computations.

No, not all tables fulfill these objectives. Only tables drawn keeping essentials of a good table fulfill these objectives.