4.1 Analyzing Data

Making sense of data

Analysis turns raw data into meaning. Quantitative data may use descriptive statistics (mean, median, percentages) or graphs; qualitative data uses coding to find themes.

Looking for patterns

Analysis identifies patterns, trends, and relationships — not just what the data say, but what they suggest about your research question.

Honesty

Report what the data actually show, including results that surprise you or contradict your hypothesis. Don't cherry-pick evidence to fit a desired conclusion.

Key terms

Analysis

turning raw data into meaning

Descriptive statistics

mean, median, percentages, graphs

Coding

finding themes in qualitative data

Patterns

trends and relationships the data suggest

Honesty

report all results; don't cherry-pick

Try an AP-style question

Coding qualitative data means…

1. deleting data
2. converting to numbers only
3. writing computer programs
4. labeling data to find themes