Measurement Scales and Data Types

 

It is important, in statistical analysis, to know about the different scales of measurement, these are:

 

In addition to the classification of measurement scales, other related terms are used to describe types of data:

 

 

Many statistical methods are appropriate only for data of certain measurement scales. When selecting a statistical method, it is essential to understand how the data to be analysed were measured. The best stage of investigation for pondering measurement scales is the design stage, at which the statistical limitations imposed by certain measurement scales may influence your choice of observations and methods of measurement.

 

Note that transforming data changes their measurement scales.

 

See also:

Normal scores

Standardization

Ranking

Converting between units