Data Documentation
Document Decisions
- Document decisions you make about your data during the research process
- It is easy to forget, even after only a short period of time
- You may need to refer to it later during the writing process
Describe Variables
- Describe research variables in a data dictionary
- Include definitions, scope notes, and if applicable, units of measure and coded values
- Document how missing values are represented
Describe Files
- Provide an overall description of your data files in a readme.txt file
- This should be a brief plain text document
- Describe the research project, the folder organization, and file naming schemes
- List the file formats you are using