Key data concept – basic row/column structure of a data table

If you already understand the difference between rows and columns, great! You can skip this section. If you are not sure, then read on because your understanding of this concept is essential for data analysis and report authoring.

The columns in the dataset represent how the information has been categorized. They exist even if there is no data. Most people these days are familiar with Microsoft Excel. When you start a new spreadsheet, one of the first things you probably do is decide what types of information you are going to add; for example, First Name, Last Name, and Department in a simple human resources spreadsheet.

Once you have structured your spreadsheet in this way with column ...

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