Finding Statistics and Data for Research Papers

Reports are always more interesting and convincing if they contain data or statistics. Some research numbers and results can add a really surprising or interesting twist to your papers. This list provides some good places to start if you want to support your opinions with some research data.

Tips for Using Statistics

Remember that data plays an important role as evidence to support your thesis, but you should also be cautious about relying too heavily on dry statistics and facts. Your paper should contain a good mixture of evidence from a variety of sources, as well as well-constructed discussion points.

Be sure that you understand the contest of statistics you use. If you are comparing internet usage among teens in China, India, and the United States, for example, you should be sure to explore the many economic and political factors as part of your discussion.

If you are planning a speech, you will need to use statistics wisely and sparingly. Dramatic statistics are more impactful and easier for your audience to understand in a verbal delivery. Too many statistics will put your audience to sleep.