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a. The complex scattered data is organised into concise, logical
and intelligible form.

b. It is possible to make the characteristics of similarities and
dissimilarities clear.

c. Comparative studies are possible.
d. Understanding of the significance is made easier and thereby ◆ Data categorisation
good deal of human energy is saved.
e. Underlying unity amongst different items is made clear and
expressed.

f. Data is so arranged that analysis and generalisation becomes
possible.

4.1.2.4 Tabulation of Data
Tabulation is the process of summarising raw data and displaying
it in compact form for further analysis. Therefore, preparing tables
is a very important step. Researchers can tabulate the data by hand ◆ Arrangement in
or in digital mode. The choice is made largely on the basis of the columns and rows
size and type of study, alternative costs, time pressures, and the
availability of computers and computer programs. If the number
of questionnaires is small, and the length is short, hand tabulation
is quite satisfactory.
Based on the number of observations (cases), tabulation is
classified into certain categories as follows:

◆ One way tabulation: Categorisation of single variables
existing in a study. ◆ Tabulation
categories
◆ Cross –tabulation: Simultaneously treating two or more
variables in the study. Categorising the number of respondents
who have answered two or more questions consecutively.
Generally accepted principles of tabulation

As a general rule, the following principles are to be considered
in the preparation of table:

a. Title of the table: The table should be first given a brief, sim-
ple and clear title which may express the basis of classifica-
tion.
b. Table number: Every table should be given a distinct number
to facilitate easy reference

c. Columns and rows: Each table should be prepared in just ad-
equate number of columns and rows
d. Caption and stubs: Caption refer to column headings and stub
refers to row headings. The columns and rows should be giv-

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