Statistics Canada
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Whenever you are presented with statistical information, it is useful to have a list of questions ready to help you judge the reliability of the statistics. This is not to suggest that there are problems with the data, but rather to help you gain confidence in questioning the reliability of the data.
The following are just some of the questions you should ask when presented with statistical information. Remember that if the source cannot provide you with answers or explanations, then you should question how sound the data really are.
- Who is the author (source) of the information?Is the source primary (i.e., the organization that collected the data) or secondary (an outside analyst or organization)?
- Does the primary source of information have a reason for misrepresenting the information?
- If the information is derived from a secondary source, is it possible that the data might have been altered for any reason?
- Is it necessary to find out the method of data collection, sampling technique or response rate to the survey?
- If the information is taken from a sample survey, do you think the sample size was adequate? What is the level of sampling error?
- Were the survey questions easy to understand?
- Do you understand the definitions of variables or topics discussed in the survey or census?
- Are the definitions consistent?
The link Finding and Using Statistics will tell you how to find information that is reliable and what to do with this information. This link covers how to find the appropriate data; how to begin; how to read statistical tables; symbols and definitions; putting data in context; use of basic techniques; and drawing conclusions.
