Step 5: Evaluate Data

The researcher’s next task is to make sense of the collected data. Before the researcher can gain understanding from the collected data, he/she must first examine the raw information (i.e., what was actually collected) to make sure the information exists as required. There are many reasons why data may not be presented in the form needed for further analysis. Some of reasons include:

• Incomplete Responses – This most likely occurs when the method of data collection (e.g., survey) is not fully completed, such as when the person taking part in the research fails to provide all information (e.g., skips questions).
• Data Entry Error – This exists when the information is not recorded properly which can occur due to the wrong entry being made (e.g., entry should be choice “B” but is entered as choice “C”) or failure of data entry technology (e.g., online connection is disrupted before full completion of survey).
• Questionable Entry – This occurs when there are apparent inconsistencies in responses such as when a respondent does not appear to be answering honestly.

To address these issues the researcher will take steps to “cleanse” the data which may include dropping problematic data either in part (e.g., exclude a single question) or in full (e.g., drop an entire survey). Alternatively, the research may be able to salvage some problem data with certain coding methods, though a discussion of these is beyond the scope of this tutorial.