Tabulation of Data

Meaning

Tabulation means a systematic arrangement of statistical data in columns and rows. It is done for making meaningful analysis, comparison and classification of the data and is designed to summarise lots of information in a simple manner.

Definitions

Tabulation has been defined variously by different authors, Some of these are quoted here as under :

• According to Tuttle, “A statistical table is the logical listing of related quantitative data in vertical columns and horizontal rows of numbers with different explanatory and qualifying words, phrases and statements in the form of titles, headings and notes to make clear the full meaning of data and their origin.”
• According to Horace sacrist, “Tables are means of recording in permanent form the analysis that is made through classification and by placing in juxtaposition things that are similar and should be compared”.
• According to D. Gregory and H. Ward, “Tabulation is the process of condensing classified data in the form of a table so that it may be more easily understood and so that any comparisons involved may be more readily made”.

According to D. W. Paton and E.F. Lindquist, “It is a medium of communication of great economy and effectiveness for which ordinary prose is inadequate…… In addition to its functions in simple presentations, the statistical table is also a useful tool of analysis”.