• Category
  • >Statistics

An Overview of Descriptive Analysis

  • Ayush Singh Rawat
  • Mar 31, 2021
An Overview of Descriptive Analysis title banner

Nowadays, Big Data and Data Science have become high volume keywords. They tend to become extensively researched and this makes this data to be processed and studied with scrutiny. One of the techniques to analyse this data is Descriptive Analysis.

 

This data needs to be analysed to provide great insights and influential trends that allows the next batch of content to be made in accordance to the general population’s liking or dis-liking.

 

 

Introduction

 

The conversion of raw data into a form that will make it easy to understand & interpret, ie., rearranging, ordering, and manipulating data to provide insightful information about the provided data.

 

Descriptive Analysis is the type of analysis of data that helps describe, show or summarize data points in a constructive way such that patterns might emerge that fulfill every condition of the data.

 

It is one of the most important steps for conducting statistical data analysis. It gives you a conclusion of the distribution of your data, helps you detect typos and outliers, and enables you to identify similarities among variables, thus making you ready for conducting further statistical analyses.   

 

 

Techniques for Descriptive Analysis

 

Data aggregation and data mining are two techniques used in descriptive analysis to churn out historical data. In Data aggregation, data is first collected and then sorted in order to make the datasets more manageable.

 

  1. Descriptive techniques often include constructing tables of quantiles and means, methods of dispersion such as variance or standard deviation, and cross-tabulations or "crosstabs" that can be used to carry out many disparate hypotheses. These hypotheses often highlight differences among subgroups.

 

  1. Measures like segregation, discrimination, and inequality are studied using specialised descriptive techniques. Discrimination is measured with the help of audit studies or decomposition methods. More segregation on the basis of type or inequality of outcomes need not be wholly good or bad in itself, but it is often considered a marker of unjust social processes; accurate measurement of the different steps across space and time is a prerequisite to understanding these processes.

 

  1. A table of means by subgroup is used to show important differences across subgroups, which mostly results in inference and conclusions being made. When we notice a gap in earnings, for example, we naturally tend to extrapolate reasons for those patterns complying. 

 

But this also enters the province of measuring impacts which requires the use of different techniques. Often, random variation causes difference in means, and statistical inference is required to determine whether observed differences could happen merely due to chance.

 

  1. A crosstab or two-way tabulation is supposed to show the proportions of components with unique values for each of two variables available, or cell proportions. For example, we might tabulate the proportion of the population that has a high school degree and also receives food or cash assistance, meaning a crosstab of education versus receipt of assistance is supposed to be made. 

 

Then we might also want to examine row proportions, or the fractions in each education group who receive food or cash assistance, perhaps seeing assistance levels dip extraordinarily at higher education levels.

 

Column proportions can also be examined, for the fraction of population with different levels of education, but this is the opposite from any causal effects. We might come across a surprisingly high number or proportion of recipients with a college education, but this might be a result of larger numbers of people being college graduates than people who have less than a high school degree.

 

(Must check: 4 Types of Data in Statistics)

 

 

Types of Descriptive Analysis

 

Descriptive analysis can be categorized into four types which are measures of frequency, central tendency, dispersion or variation, and position. These methods are optimal for a single variable at a time.


the photo represents the different types of Descriptive analysis techniques, namely; Measures of frequency, measures of central tendency, measures of dispersion, measures of position, contingency tables and scatter plots.

Different types of Descriptive Analysis


  1. Measures of Frequency

 

In descriptive analysis, it’s essential to know how frequently a certain event or response is likely to occur. This is the prime purpose of measures of frequency to make like a count or percent. 

 

For example, consider a survey where 500 participants are asked about their favourite IPL team. A list of 500 responses would be difficult to consume and accommodate, but the data can be made much more accessible by measuring how many times a certain IPL team was selected.

 

 

  1. Measures of Central Tendency

 

In descriptive analysis, it’s also important to find out the Central (or average) Tendency or response. Central tendency is measured with the use of three averages — mean, median, and mode. As an example, consider a survey in which the weight of 1,000 people is measured. In this case, the mean average would be an excellent descriptive metric to measure mid-values.

 

 

  1. Measures of Dispersion

 

Sometimes, it is important to know how data is divided across a range. To elaborate this, consider the average weight in a sample of two people. If both individuals are 60 kilos, the average weight will be 60 kg. However, if one individual is 50 kg and the other is 70 kg, the average weight is still 60 kg. Measures of dispersion like range or standard deviation can be employed to measure this kind of distribution.

 

  1. Measures of Position

 

Descriptive analysis also involves identifying the position of a single value or its response in relation to others. Measures like percentiles and quartiles become very useful in this area of expertise.

 

Apart from it, if you’ve collected data on multiple variables, you can use the Bivariate or Multivariate descriptive statistics to study whether there are relationships between them.

 

In bivariate analysis, you simultaneously study the frequency and variability of two different variables to see if they seem to have a pattern and vary together. You can also test and compare the central tendency of the two variables before carrying out further types of statistical analysis.

 

Multivariate analysis is the same as bivariate analysis but it is carried out for more than two variables. Following 2 methods are for bivariate analysis.

 

  1. Contingency table

 

In a contingency table, each cell represents the combination of the two variables. Naturally, an independent variable (e.g., gender) is listed along the vertical axis and a dependent one is tallied along the horizontal axis (e.g., activities). You need to read “across” the table to witness how the two variables i.e. independent and dependent variables relate to each other.


 

Group

0–4

5–8

9–12

13–16

17+

Men

33

68

37

23

22

Women

36

48

44

83

25

A table showing a tally of different gender with number of activities


  1. Scatter plots

 

A scatter plot is a chart that enables you to see the relationship between two or three different variables. It’s a visual rendition of the strength of a relationship.

 

In a scatter plot, you are supposed to plot one variable along the x-axis and another one along the y-axis. Each data point is denoted by a point in the chart.


the photo is a scatter plot representation for the different hours of sleep a person needs to acquire by the different age in his lifespan

The scatter plot shows the hours of sleep needed per day by age,Source


(Recommend Blog: Introduction to Bayesian Statistics)

 

 

Advantages of Descriptive Analysis

 

  • High degree of objectivity and neutrality of the researchers are one of the main advantages of Descriptive Analysis. The reason why researchers need to be extra vigilant is because descriptive analysis shows different characteristics of the data extracted and if the data doesn’t match with the trends then it will lead to major dumping of data.

 

  • Descriptive analysis is considered to be more vast than other quantitative methods and provide a broader picture of an event or phenomenon. It can use any number of variables or even a single number of variables to conduct a descriptive research. 

 

  • This type of analysis is considered as a better method for collecting information that describes relationships as natural and exhibits the world as it exists. This reason makes this analysis very real and close to humanity as all the trends are made after research about the real-life behaviour of the data.

 

  • It is considered useful for identifying variables and new hypotheses which can be further analyzed through experimental and inferential studies. It is considered useful because the margin for error is very less as we are taking the trends straight from the data properties.

 

  • This type of study gives the researcher the flexibility to use both quantitative and qualitative data in order to discover the properties of the population.

 

For example, researchers can use both case study which is a qualitative analysis and correlation analysis to describe a phenomena in its own way. Using the case studies for describing people, events, institutions enables the researcher to understand the behavior and pattern of the concerned set to its maximum potential. 

 

  • In the case of surveys which consist of one of the main types of Descriptive Analysis, the researcher tends to gather data points from a relatively large number of samples unlike experimental studies that generally need smaller samples.

 

This is an out and out advantage of the survey method over other descriptive methods that it enables researchers to study larger groups of individuals with ease. If the surveys are properly administered, it gives a broader and neater description of the unit under research.

 

(Also check: Importance of Statistics for Data Science)

Latest Comments

  • carolina35df38bee2c44524a85

    Apr 21, 2025

    LEGITIMATE CRYPTO RECOVERY EXPERT // THE HACK ANGELS If you have lost money fraudulently to any crypto scammers and you want to retrieve it back. I will advise you, kindly reach out to THE HACK ANGELS RECOVERY EXPERT. I suffered a significant loss in the cryptocurrency market a few months ago. I was devastated when I fell victim to a sophisticated crypto scam, losing a staggering $825,000. The emotional toll was immense, and I felt hopeless. That's when I came across a review about THE HACK ANGELS RECOVERY EXPERT. Their expertise in crypto recovery caught my attention, and I decided to reach out to them, and they surpassed my expectations in assisting me to recover my losses. I'm grateful for their service and highly recommend them to anyone struggling with crypto recovery. Their expertise can make a significant difference in getting your funds back. Here's their Info below (support@thehackangels.com) Website at (www.thehackangels.com) WhatsApp +1(520)200-2320) Their expertise can make a significant difference in getting your funds back

  • carolina35df38bee2c44524a85

    Apr 21, 2025

    LEGITIMATE CRYPTO RECOVERY EXPERT // THE HACK ANGELS If you have lost money fraudulently to any crypto scammers and you want to retrieve it back. I will advise you, kindly reach out to THE HACK ANGELS RECOVERY EXPERT. I suffered a significant loss in the cryptocurrency market a few months ago. I was devastated when I fell victim to a sophisticated crypto scam, losing a staggering $825,000. The emotional toll was immense, and I felt hopeless. That's when I came across a review about THE HACK ANGELS RECOVERY EXPERT. Their expertise in crypto recovery caught my attention, and I decided to reach out to them, and they surpassed my expectations in assisting me to recover my losses. I'm grateful for their service and highly recommend them to anyone struggling with crypto recovery. Their expertise can make a significant difference in getting your funds back. Here's their Info below (support@thehackangels.com) Website at (www.thehackangels.com) WhatsApp +1(520)200-2320) Their expertise can make a significant difference in getting your funds back

  • davidbrodman907437c8a5329b4ce6

    Apr 22, 2025

    I recently worked with Pinnacle Credit Specialist to address some issues on my credit report, and I’m genuinely impressed with the results. After a family member recommended their services, I reached out for assistance with improving my credit score, which had been negatively impacted by several inaccuracies. Pinnacle Credit Specialist was professional, efficient, and reliable throughout the process. They thoroughly reviewed my credit report, identified errors, and guided me on the steps to dispute them. Within a few weeks, I saw a significant improvement in my credit score, and I was able to move forward with my financial goals. Their expertise in credit repair was evident, and they communicated clearly at every stage. For anyone seeking a trustworthy credit repair service, I highly recommend Pinnacle Credit Specialist. You can contact them via email at pinnaclecreditspecialist@gmail.com or by phone at (409) 331-2269. I’m confident they can help others achieve similar results.

  • Michael Davenport

    Apr 24, 2025

    I was recently scammed out of $53,000 by a fraudulent Bitcoin investment scheme, which added significant stress to my already difficult health issues, as I was also facing cancer surgery expenses. Desperate to recover my funds, I spent hours researching and consulting other victims, which led me to discover the excellent reputation of Capital Crypto Recover, I came across a Google post It was only after spending many hours researching and asking other victims for advice that I discovered Capital Crypto Recovery’s stellar reputation. I decided to contact them because of their successful recovery record and encouraging client testimonials. I had no idea that this would be the pivotal moment in my fight against cryptocurrency theft. Thanks to their expert team, I was able to recover my lost cryptocurrency back. The process was intricate, but Capital Crypto Recovery's commitment to utilizing the latest technology ensured a successful outcome. I highly recommend their services to anyone who has fallen victim to cryptocurrency fraud. For assistance, contact Recovercapital@cyberservices.com Capital Crypto Recover on Telegram OR Call Number +1 (336)390-6684 via email: Capitalcryptorecover@zohomail.com you can visit his website: https://recovercapital.wixsite.com/capital-crypto-rec-1

  • kathrynemartinmorrisc6bbd648ce314d68

    Apr 25, 2025

    I had old medical bills on my credit report, but they have no account numbers and other information that I don’t know of. How do I dispute them off my credit? My fiancée has stuff on his credit report from 2022, but we can’t get them removed until we came across Pinnacle Credit Specialist the anonymous hacker from this blog who bypasses into the 3 credit bureaus and clears off both student loans including other negative marks on my report on two times payment as agreed. He also went ahead to add some positive trade lines which helped screw up my credit scores to 800+ within 14 days. Contact Pinnacle Credit Specialist for more about credit issues on his email; pinnaclecreditspecialist@gmail.com or text 409 331 2269.

  • Elizabeth Rush

    Apr 27, 2025

    God bless Capital Crypto Recover Services for the marvelous work you did in my life, I have learned the hard way that even the most sensible investors can fall victim to scams. When my USD was stolen, for anyone who has fallen victim to one of the bitcoin binary investment scams that are currently ongoing, I felt betrayal and upset. But then I was reading a post on site when I saw a testimony of Wendy Taylor online who recommended that Capital Crypto Recovery has helped her recover scammed funds within 24 hours. after reaching out to this cyber security firm that was able to help me recover my stolen digital assets and bitcoin. I’m genuinely blown away by their amazing service and professionalism. I never imagined I’d be able to get my money back until I complained to Capital Crypto Recovery Services about my difficulties and gave all of the necessary paperwork. I was astounded that it took them 12 hours to reclaim my stolen money back. Without a doubt, my USDT assets were successfully recovered from the scam platform, Thank you so much Sir, I strongly recommend Capital Crypto Recover for any of your bitcoin recovery, digital funds recovery, hacking, and cybersecurity concerns. You reach them Call/Text Number +1 (336)390-6684 His Email: Recovercapital@cyberservices.com Contact Telegram: @Capitalcryptorecover His website: https://recovercapital.wixsite.com/capital-crypto-rec-1

  • francamaya3857559ee8bfe241f4

    May 01, 2025

    HIRE A HACKER TO RECOVER STOLEN FUNDS. THE HACK ANGELS If you are a victim of losing your hard earned money to a fake online investment. Or you require assistance getting back your lost or stolen ETH, Bitcoin, or other cryptocurrency? I will recommend anybody who wants to recover scammed bitcoin, stolen cryptocurrency, funds lost to binary options forex, investment and any other form of online scam to reach Out to THE HACK ANGLES RECOVERY EXPERT. So, catch them up for your lost funds through their email or through their WhatsApp No. WhatsApp +1(520)200-2320) support@thehackangels.com Website at www.thehackangels.com I will always be grateful for the job well done.

  • francamaya3857559ee8bfe241f4

    May 01, 2025

    HIRE A HACKER TO RECOVER STOLEN FUNDS. THE HACK ANGELS If you are a victim of losing your hard earned money to a fake online investment. Or you require assistance getting back your lost or stolen ETH, Bitcoin, or other cryptocurrency? I will recommend anybody who wants to recover scammed bitcoin, stolen cryptocurrency, funds lost to binary options forex, investment and any other form of online scam to reach Out to THE HACK ANGLES RECOVERY EXPERT. So, catch them up for your lost funds through their email or through their WhatsApp No. WhatsApp +1(520)200-2320) support@thehackangels.com Website at www.thehackangels.com I will always be grateful for the job well done.

  • lukasnigel78558e03bbdb14451

    May 01, 2025

    CRYPTOCURRENCY RECOVERY SERVICES Call iFORCE HACKER RECOVERY I’d like to share my heartfelt experience with iFORCE HACKER RECOVERY, who helped me recover my Ethereum after I was defrauded and felt completely hopeless. The emotional stress of losing such a significant amount was overwhelming. Then I found iFORCE HACKER RECOVERY. From the moment I reached out, their team was supportive, compassionate, and highly professional. They listened carefully, assured me it was possible to recover my funds, and guided me through every step with clear, consistent updates. Within just a few weeks, my Ethereum was fully restored. Beyond the recovery, they educated me on online safety. I highly recommend their services. They genuinely turned things around for me. Webpage info; ( iforcehackersrecovery. com Email; contact@iforcehackersrecovery. co m Call/Text-whatsapp; +1 (240) 803. (3706)

  • Elizabeth Rush

    May 01, 2025

    God bless Capital Crypto Recover Services for the marvelous work you did in my life, I have learned the hard way that even the most sensible investors can fall victim to scams. When my USD was stolen, for anyone who has fallen victim to one of the bitcoin binary investment scams that are currently ongoing, I felt betrayal and upset. But then I was reading a post on site when I saw a testimony of Wendy Taylor online who recommended that Capital Crypto Recovery has helped her recover scammed funds within 24 hours. after reaching out to this cyber security firm that was able to help me recover my stolen digital assets and bitcoin. I’m genuinely blown away by their amazing service and professionalism. I never imagined I’d be able to get my money back until I complained to Capital Crypto Recovery Services about my difficulties and gave all of the necessary paperwork. I was astounded that it took them 12 hours to reclaim my stolen money back. Without a doubt, my USDT assets were successfully recovered from the scam platform, Thank you so much Sir, I strongly recommend Capital Crypto Recover for any of your bitcoin recovery, digital funds recovery, hacking, and cybersecurity concerns. You reach them Call/Text Number +1 (336)390-6684 His Email: Recovercapital@cyberservices.com Contact Telegram: @Capitalcryptorecover His website: https://recovercapital.wixsite.com/capital-crypto-rec-1