4  Advanced Tips

Data4All

Author

Ted Laderas, PhD

4.1 No Calculations in the Raw Data files

  • Keep the Raw Data Raw and read-only when possible
  • Make backups (see below)

4.2 Make Backups

  • Avoid modifying raw data in place
    • Version the file when you add more data
    • Write protect the files
  • Make copies for analysis and yourself

4.3 Use Data Validation to Avoid Errors

  • Select column, then Data >> Validation
  • Think about what data types a column should be
    • A whole number in some range
    • A decimal number in some range
    • A list of possible values
    • Text, but with a limit on length
  • Specify when values are missing consistently

4.4 Save the Data in Plain Text Files

  • Excel: File >> Save As >> CSV UTF-8
  • Google Sheets: File >> Download >> CSV