2. Types of data and data collation for efficient processing

Data are the soul of most empirical research. Adequate data collection and their proper collation are essential to arrive at right conclusions. These conclusions are mostly drawn from the statistical analysis of properly collated data. Since the methods of statistical analysis are different for different types of data, a clear understanding of various types of data is necessary for their efficient processing. Whereas broad types of data-quantitative and qualitative-are well known, some researchers struggle with the proper collation of ordinal data and quantitative categories. Additionally, some young researchers need guidance on preparing tables to communicate their results effectively. Graphics add muscles to the skeleton of data and need to be judiciously chosen. This article provides details of various types of data, their adequacy, and their proper collation, including a brief on tables and graphics. Almost all medical researchers carry out these activities - thus, this may have wide ramifications. Although this article primarily targets postgraduate students and young researchers, our interaction with a diverse group of researchers suggests that many experienced researchers may also find this article useful in the management of their data for reaching the right conclusions.