Telling it like it isn't: Lying With Data

Elsewhere in TimeWeb we have seen how to summarise and present numerical information. You can see how careful use of these techniques can help to extract the essential elements from what at first sight appears to be an incomprehensible mass of data.

But beware! There are many instances when summaries and presentations of data are not carried out carefully. As a confident and competent data handler you are interested in drawing as clear a picture as possible from a data set. Other data handlers may produce a distorted picture and therefore may create a false impression.

Lying with data does not necessarily require a dishonest approach (although it helps!). This section looks at six ways of being 'economical with the truth'. You should be aware of the dangers that lie in improper data handling and watch out for examples in your studies and working life. If you look, you will almost certainly be able to find instances of using data to give a distorted impression.

Have a look at the illustration section to find out six ways of being 'economical' with the truth.

Alternatively why not go straight to the worksheet on choosing a suitable chart to portray data?