Analysis

Once you have researched your topic, you will need to interpret the data. Your task is to analyze the information to answer your original question. This will look different for every project and may include the following:

  • Calculating statistics such as the mean and standard deviation of a set of data
  • Graphing a set of data
  • Comparing data values
  • Looking for patterns or trends
  • Determining whether data from different sources are consistent

Part of your analysis should be an analysis of the data source(s). Ask yourself the following:

  • Do the data appear to be biased? Is the source promoting a particular point of view?
  • Does the source appear to be reputable?
  • Is there enough data to draw conclusions?

If there appears to be a problem with your primary or secondary data, either don't use the data or explain the problem so your audience can also interpret the data correctly.