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Quantitative Techniques – I
Notes 4. To present data in a minimum space.
5. To detect errors and omissions in the data.
6. To facilitate comparison of data.
7. To facilitate reference.
8. To identify trend and tendencies of the given data.
9. To facilitate statistical analysis.
3.1.1 Difference between Classification and Tabulation
The basic points of difference between classification and tabulation, inspite of the fact that these
are closely related, are as given below:
1. Classification of data is basis for tabulation because first the data are classified and then
tabulated.
2. By classification the data are divided into various groups and subgroups on the basis of
their similarities and dissimilarities while tabulation is a process of arranging the classified
data in rows and columns with suitable heads and subheads.
3.1.2 Main Parts of a Table
The main parts of a table are as given below:
1. Table Number: This number is helpful in the identification of a table. This is often indicated
at the top of the table.
2. Title: Each table should have a title to indicate the scope, nature of contents of the table in
an unambiguous and concise form.
3. Captions and stubs: A table is made up of rows and columns. Headings or subheadings
used to designate columns are called captions while those used to designate rows are
called stubs. A caption or a stub should be self explanatory. A provision of totals of each
row or column should always be made in every table by providing an additional column
or row respectively.
4. Main Body of the Table: This is the most important part of the table as it contains numerical
information. The size and shape of the main body should be planned in view of the nature
of figures and the objective of investigation. The arrangement of numerical data in main
body is done from top to bottom in columns and from left to right in rows.
5. Ruling and Spacing: Proper ruling and spacing is very important in the construction of a
table. Vertical lines are drawn to separate various columns with the exception of sides of
a table. Horizontal lines are normally not drawn in the body of a table, however, the totals
are always separated from the main body by horizontal lines. Further, the horizontal
lines are drawn at the top and the bottom of a table.
Spacing of various horizontal and vertical lines should be done depending on the available
space. Major and minor items should be given space according to their relative importance.
6. Head-note: A head-note is often given below the title of a table to indicate the units of
measurement of the data. This is often enclosed in brackets.
7. Foot note: Abbreviations, if any, used in the table or some other explanatory notes are
given just below the last horizontal line in the form of footnotes.
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