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Introduction — What is Statistical Enquiry?

Statistical Enquiry

An investigation on a topic by any agency wherein relevant quantitative information is collected. It implies search of truth with the aid of statistical methods of collection, compilation, analysis, interpretation, etc.

Statistics is a set of numerical data. Data is the base on which the superstructure of statistical investigation is made — success and failure of investigation mainly depends upon the quality, adequacy and accuracy of method of collection of data and data itself. Collection of data is the back-bone of statistical investigation. All other statistical activities like classification, presentation, analysis and interpretation start only after the data have been collected.

Key Takeaways

Statistical enquiry implies search of truth with the aid of statistical methods.
The basic problem is to collect facts and figures relating to the particular phenomenon under study.
The purpose of collection of data is to collect evidence for reaching a sound and clear solution to a problem.

Important Terms

Sources of Data

Internal Sources

When data is collected from an organisation's own reports and records.

Data collected and compiled through internal sources is called internal data.
Example: In a company, internal data may be available about annual report on profit and loss, sales, production, wages, etc.
Government departments generate a large number of internal data and print reports on regular basis for future planning.

External Sources

Data collected from outside the organisation.

Data collected and compiled through external sources is called external data.
Example: A Tour and Travels Company obtains information on 'UP Tourism' from Uttar Pradesh Transport Corporation.
External data can be collected from primary as well as secondary sources.

Collection of data is of utmost importance in any statistical enquiry as no useful and valid conclusions can be drawn in case of any inadequacies in data. Data may be collected either from a primary source (Primary Data) or from a secondary source (Secondary Data).

Table 3.1 — Food Grains Production Variable Example

Variable

A quantity or attribute whose value varies from one investigation to another. Variables are generally represented by the letters X, Y or Z.

Table 3.1: Production of Food Grains in India (Million Tonnes)
Year (X)	Production of Food Grains (Y)
1970-71	108
1978-79	132
1990-91	176
1996-97	199
1997-98	194
2001-02	212
2018-19	283
2020-21	310
2021-22	315.7
2022-23 (Estimated)	330.5

As values vary from year to year, they are called variables. The years are represented by variable X and the production of food grains by variable Y. These values are the 'data' from which we can obtain information about the trend of production of food grains in India. 'Data' is a tool which helps in understanding problems by providing information.

Statistical Enquiry and Sources of Data

Notes