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Data Reference Worksheet
When searching for data it can feel like there is no method and you are just casting about. When we meet to discuss finding data, it can help to know that we are discussing a framework laid out in this worksheet.
- Data Reference Worksheet (Google Doc Version)Save a copy of this to your Google Drive to keep notes on your data search process.
Noting Data Sources in the Literature
At the very first stages of your literature review, start taking notes on potential data sources. Make a habit of jotting down the data used in each study you read to make it faster when you come back later in your search for data. Also, this practice can help you see and articulate how your contribution is unique. You might want to keep these notes in a table like the following for easy reference.
| Author(s) and Year of Publication | Claim | Data | Dependent Variable/Estimation Technique | Significant Findings |
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For an editable table like the one above, open this spreadsheet, save a copy for yourself, then use it to track your literature.
- Data Reference Worksheet (PDF version)A worksheet for brainstorming places to look for data.
- Data Reference Worksheet (Google Doc Version)Make your own copy of this worksheet to fill out and keep in Google Drive.
- Example: Comparing Data SourcesFrom a published paper in economics where the author summarizes previous work in a table like this one.
- See more Data Search Strategies (Data, Datasets, & Statistics Guide)Find tips on searching at the variable level, finding replication datasets, and more.
Comparing Variables Across Datasets
In your search for data you may need to compare similar questions from several surveys. Below is a grid to help you keep track of this process.
- Compare Variables (Google Doc)Make a copy of this document so you can use it to start your own variable comparison grid.
