Page 28 - DECO504_STATISTICAL_METHODS_IN_ECONOMICS_ENGLISH

Statistical Methods in Economics

Notes ingenuity and technique, a masterpiece of economy of space combined with a maximum of clearly
presented information. According to W. M. Harpen, “The construction of a table is in many ways a
work of art.” The rules regarding tabulation are not hard and fast, but prove as a guide in tabulation.
These rules are divided into two groups:
(A) Rules relating to Table Structure: This includes the rules explaining the preparation of structure
of the table. This group includes the following rules:
(1) Table must always have a table number, so that it can be easily identified or can be referred
to whenever required.
(2) The table must always have a relevant title, which should be clear, concise and self-
explanatory. The title should explain about: (a) the subject area, (b) data or period to
which the data belong to, (c) basis and principles used in classification of data, (d) the
field to which the data relate to.
(3) The stub and caption should be clear and as brief as possible. Columns should be numbered.
(4) Neat and tidy appearance must be given to the table which can be done by providing
proper ruling and spacing as is necessary. If the table continues to the next page, no
bottom line must be drawn, as it would indicate the end of the table. Major and minor
items must be given space according to their relative importance. Coloured inks, heavy
printed titles or sub-titles, thick and thin ruling etc must be used to clarify a complex table.
(5) Use of averages, sub-totals, totals etc must be made if the data so require. In case, it is
required, the table should contain sub-totals for each separate classification of data and a
general total for all combined classes. For example, data about cost break-up of a particular
production process shall require the above. But the data on annual percentage rise in
bonus of employees may not require use of these sub-totals and totals.
(6) The body of the table must be as comprehensive as possible, consistent with the purpose.
Unnecessary details must be avoided and, items in ‘miscellaneous or unclassified columns
must be least.
(7) The items in the body of the table must be arranged in some systematic order. Depending
upon the type of data and purpose of enquiry, data may be arranged: (a) alphabetically,
(b) geographically, (c) progressively, (d) chronologically, (e) ascending or descending
order, (f) conventionally or (g) in order of importance etc.
(8) If further clarification about some figures, sub-heads etc is required, it must be given in
the footnotes. The important limitation of data can also be specified here if the need is felt
by the person who is tabulating.
(9) The source of the data must be specified if the data is secondary.
(10) The units of measurement, if common, must be indicated in the head note, otherwise
under each heading and sub-heading.
(B) General Rules: Other than the rules relating to table structure, there are certain rules which
should be followed while tabulation, so that, the tabulation can be accomplished successfully.
They are:
(1) Table should be precise and easy to understand.
(2) If the data are very large they should not be crowded in a single table. However, it is
essential that each table is complete in itself.
(3) The table should suit the size of the paper. The width of the columns should be pre-
decided giving due consideration to this.
(4) Those columns whose data are likely to be compared should be preferably kept side-by-
side.
(5) Percentages, averages, totals etc must be kept close to the data.
(6) The figures must be approximated to one or two decimals. This must be specified in the
footnote.

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