Skip to Main Content
We are working to upgrade the research experience by making ongoing improvements to our Research Guides.
You may encounter changes in the look and feel of the Research Guides website along with structural changes to our existing guides. If you have any questions or concerns about this process please let us know.

Government Datasets, Statistical Data & Census Information

Welcome to the Government Datasets and Statistical Data Information Guide. This comprehensive resource aims to assist researchers and casual users by providing access to raw data collected or generated by various U.S. Government agencies and select International Agencies across a diverse range of topics.

To start, let's clarify some key concepts:

Data Set (or Dataset): A dataset is a structured collection of data points or observations. A dataset typically corresponds to one or more database tables in tabular data. In such tables, each column represents a specific variable or attribute, while each row corresponds to a particular record or observation within the dataset. Datasets can encompass various information, ranging from demographic statistics to economic indicators.

Data Collection involves gathering and compiling data from various sources or through specific methods. This process is fundamental to research and analysis, laying the groundwork for generating insights and conclusions. Data collection methods can include surveys, experiments, observations, administrative records, and more. By meticulously collecting relevant information, researchers can address specific research questions or objectives with accuracy and rigor.

Statistical Data Analysis: Statistical data analysis is a systematic procedure involving applying various statistical operations to quantify, analyze, and interpret data. It is a form of quantitative research that seeks to uncover patterns, relationships, and trends within the data. Statistical analysis enables researchers to make informed decisions and draw meaningful conclusions based on empirical evidence. This process typically involves descriptive statistics to summarize data characteristics and inferential statistics to make predictions or inferences about populations based on sample data.

Quantitative Data: Quantitative data encompasses numerical information that can be measured and analyzed using statistical methods. This data type includes surveys, observational, experimental, and other forms of quantitative research. Quantitative data provides valuable insights into various fields by quantifying phenomena and relationships, including social sciences, economics, health, and more.

This guide aims to facilitate access to government datasets and statistical data, empowering users to explore, analyze, and draw insights from a wealth of information. Whether you're a researcher, student, policymaker, or curious individual, this resource is a gateway to valuable data sources for informed decision-making and exploration.

 

Note: This guide provides a starting point for research using datasets and statistics. It's dynamic so that links may change over time. If you find a broken link, please email govinfo@fau.edu so it can be fixed. Suggestions for free datasets are welcome in the same email. Thank you for helping improve this resource.

Need data right now?  These sources can get you large, clean datasets quickly!

Attribution

 This Library Guide was developed using a template from SUNY Geneseo, originally created by Bonnie Swoger and Justina Elmore. It is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International LicenseAny part of it may be used as long as credit is included.  Derivative works can be licensed under Creative Commons to encourage sharing and reuse of educational materials.

Last updated on Sep 11, 2024 1:49 PM