Describing Data
Eva Chan 
DescribingData2.pptx
Describing Data
Finding meaning in the data
Tips for Showing Data
Use a title that conveys the meaning of the data.
Choose a chart or graph that helps show the relationship the right variables or as part of the whole.
Label the x- and y-axis.
Cite the source to convey a credible argument.
Analyze your Reader
Audience: Who is the reader? Why is this message important to them?
Residents in a neighborhood association who want to know what they can do to reduce water usage.
Purpose: What is the intent of the message (to do, to know, to feel)? What do you want them to do in response to the message?
To reduce water consumption by 25% using a variety of ways.
Context: What is the situation that prompted the message? Is there urgency? Will the message prompt any negative emotions (anger, hostility, confusion, etc.)?
Residents have requested this information and want to learn how to be more mindful of water resources.
Checklist for Describing Data
Describe data in one paragraph (about 4-5 sentences).
Cite the source of the data.
Explain the elements of the visual and how to read the data.
Transition to what the next idea.
The topic sentence should convey the meaning of the data, i.e., the main idea. Details should connect and support the main idea.
Example of an Effective Description of Data
The data shows that there are key sources of water use, as reported by the AWWA Research Foundation.
The data shows that there are key sources of water use, as reported by the AWWA Research Foundation. Almost half of the water use is from toilets and clothes washing (48.4%). Water use from showers, faucets, and leaks are relatively the same, on average about 15% each.
The data shows that there are key sources of water use, as reported by the AWWA Research Foundation. Almost half of the water use is from toilets and clothes washing (48.4%). Water use from showers, faucets, and leaks are relatively the same, on average about 15% each. Given this, there are opportunities to reduce water use by 25%.
Assignment: Describe the Data
Audience
Sales team responsible for the large client companies (Kent, Lincoln, Mersey, York)
Purpose
To identify the critical client to maintain
Assume we are at the end of 2019 and looking at the forecast for 2020
Context
The team lost a few key clients in 2019. There’s concern about the strategy for the clients remaining.
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