How should speakers handle numerical data in their presentations? Identify and define the two main types, and discuss several guidelines for using data
What will be an ideal response?
Numerical data is seen in two basic types: raw numbers and statistics. Raw numbers are simply figures unmodified by any mathematical operation. Statistics are summary figures that help communicate the important characteristic of a complex set of numbers (most commonly, averages and percentages).
In using any kind of numerical data, several guidelines will help: 1) Make sure the numbers are clear. 2) Remember that the audience will hear the figures only once. 3) Round off figures so they are easy to comprehend and retain. 4) If the numbers are difficult to remember, reinforce them with a presentation aid such as a slide or chart. 5) Make the numbers explicitly meaningful by comparing them to others or citing real-world examples. 6) Do not overload listeners with too many figures, but use them sparingly. 7) Provide only current and reliable data, and be sure to make the audience aware of this.