Writing Style for Data Analysis

Data analysis is a process of systematically applying statistical and logical techniques to

describe, summarize, and compare data that have been collected. Our collected data are normally
presented in forms of illustrations such as graphs, charts and maps. Presented illustrations need
to be analyzed.

Data analysis is an important process which is required when we write analytical reports,
particularly on our findings. When writing a report, we have to ensure that the analysis of our
findings are reported and interpreted accurately; therefore, we need to use correct language with
specific vocabulary and register which clearly describe the illustrations.

Example:

The graph illustrates the size of urban population in six cities in the United Kingdom. According
to the graph, London has the highest population whereas Liverpool has the lowest population.
London embodies 6.8 million people while Birmingham and Manchester embodies about 2.1
million people each. 1.7 million people reside in Leeds, and in Newscastle and Liverpool, there
are about 1.5 million people. The graph shows that in London alone the population is similar to
the total population of the other five cities. It can be concluded that its strategic location in
Europe, standard of living and job opportunities are among the factors that have driven many
people around the world to reside in London.

Note:

In the above analysis, the first sentence explains what the graph shows or illustrates.
This is followed by a general statement of the trend observed regarding the
population. This point is supported by the next few sentences which provide the
statistical support. The last part draws a conclusion based on the analysis.
 Some specific register for data analysis

To introduce the graph indicate

show
demonstrate
illustrate
To state the general statement According to the graph/table/figure...
As shown/illustrated by the chart/graph,...
To provide statistical data (when make up
number or percentage is used) account for
amount to
most of
the highest
the least of
the remaining of

Exercise 6:
Complete the analysis below by filling in the blanks with appropriate register.
Different Types of Waste Material

13.50%

34.00% Paper
7.00%
Yard waste
Plastic
Food Waste
8.00% Metal
Glass
Other Material

8.50%

9.00%
20.00%

The pie chart above _______________ the different types of materials which are discarded daily
by Malaysians. _______________, paper has the highest percentage for the material being
disposed away while glass is ____________ being discarded. According to the chart, paper
____________ a major portion of the discarded waste which is ____________, and this is
followed by yard waste which ____________ 20% of the discarded materials and other materials
which is 13.5%. ____________ discarded materials are plastic, food waste, ____________ and
glass which make up 9%, 8.5%, 8% and 7% respectively. It can be concluded that probably
paper-based materials are the most utilized products in Malaysia which contributed to its highest
percentage as wastage.

Exercise 7:
Analyze the figures provided below.

Figure 1

Activities carried out during leisure time

10

6 Study
Sport
5
Chatting
4

0
Computer Electrical Civil Mechanical

Figure 2
Preference of Study Skills among Kuktem's students
9.00%
22.00%

Individual
Pair Work
Small Group
Large Group

40.00%

29.00%

Figure 3
 Soft skills elements students need to focus

Male

Dress Code
Communication skills
Leadership quality

Female

0.00% 50.00% 100.00%