Data Interpretation can be called as comprehension of mathematics. In reading comprehension, we have to study the passage and answer the questions followed by that. Similarly, in Data Interpretation, data is given in the form of graphs, charts and tables followed by questions. We have to study, understand and analyse the data to solve the questions.
DATA: Data is a collection of facts, such as values or measurements. It can be numbers, words, measurements, observations or even just descriptions of things. Information refers to data being arranged and presented in a systematic or an organize form, so that some useful inference can be drawn from the same. By data we generally mean quantities, figures, statistics, relating to any event.
What is DATA INTERPRETATION?
Data Interpretation is the extraction of maximum information from a given set of data or information. The data can be presented either in the form of a table or a bar chart or a pie chart or a line graph or as a combination of one of these formats.
Tips in solving DI questions:
The following tips may help in answering problem solving questions that involve data analysis:
1.Before starting DI section one should be very comfortable with numbers, calculations, fractions,
percentages, averages, ratios. It helps in reducing the time required for solving the questions.
2. Scan the data briefly to see what it is about, but do not attempt to analyse it in too much detail
before reading a question. Focus on only those aspects of the data that are necessary to answer the
question.
3. Be sure to read all notes related to the data.
4.When possible, try to make visual comparisons of the data given in a graph and estimate products
and quotients rather than perform involved computations. Remember that these questions are to be
answered only on the basis of the data given, everyday facts (such as the number of days in a year),
and your knowledge of mathematics.
5. Do not make use of specific information you recall that might relate to the particular situation on
which the questions are based unless that information can be derived from the date provided.
Let us see some of the graphs of various types.
BAR DIAGRAM: A bar diagram is that two dimensional graphic representation where the
elementary graphic objects are a set of rectangles (bars) drawn in parallel so that the extension of the
same is proportional to the magnitude they intend to represent.
Line Graphs: A line graph is a type of graph, which displays information as a series of data points
connected by straight line segments or A graph that uses points connected by lines to show how
something changes in value.
PIE CHART: A pie chart is a circular chart divided into sectors. In a pie chart, the arc length of each sector (and consequently its central angle and area), is proportional to the quantity it represents.
TABLES: Data is given in rows and columns. A row is a series of cells going horizontally across the table. A column is a series of cells going vertically or up and down the table.