Reading charts
One common source of errors is misreading information contained in charts. Here are some tips to help you avoid that problem.
In reading charts and statistical tables be sure to:
- Use a ruler or straight edge to mark the line you are reading. Post-it notes are great for providing a straight line in a chart.
- Note the date of the figures you are reading and give this information to the patron.
- Note the unit of measurement used in the table.
- Pay attention to footnotes. Many times the footnotes will give additional information that will be critical for the answer.
- Note who compiled the data (usually given at the top or bottom of the chart) and give this information to the patron.
Verify spellings using a telephonetic key:
| B as in Boy |
G as in George |
S as in Sam |
| C as in Charles |
M as in Mary |
T as in Thomas |
| D as in David |
N as in Nancy |
V as in Victor |
| F as in Frank |
P as in Peter |
Z as in Zebra |
Go to Synonyms.
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This page was updated November 24, 2003.