Classification of Data — Meaning and Objectives

Raw data, as collected, is a disorganised mass of figures from which little can be understood. Classification is the process of arranging the collected data into groups or classes according to their common characteristics, so that similarities and differences become clear. It is the first step in organising data, coming before presentation and tabulation.

Objectives / functions of classification:

• To condense a large mass of raw data into a compact, manageable form.
• To bring out the similarities and differences within the data by grouping like with like.
• To make the data comparable and ready for tabulation and further statistical analysis.
• To present the data in a simple, understandable form that highlights its important features. …