Why use data, datasets, and statistics?
Numerical data, datasets, and statistics can be very powerful in supporting an argument or thesis and can introduce relevant context around a topic. Many courses also require a data component for analysis, so you may find yourself needing to find data that can fit your topic.
Unlike other types of information, data is widely collected and made available in many ways and forms, so there isn't a one-stop-shop for accessing data and statistics. Persistence is key in searching and oftentimes you will have to compromise depending on what is actually available or accessible.
The Libraries has a number of paid databases to access data and statistics, but many rich forms of data can also be found freely available online published by governments, non-profits, think tanks, and educational institutions.
Need more help? Contact Government Publications staff at govref@umn.edu.
Getting started
While there is no single resource that will have all types and topics of data or statistics, here are a few popular and highly used resources to start with:
- Sage Data This link opens in a new windowProvides access to statistical data produced by U.S. Federal agencies, States, private organizations, and major intergovernmental organizations. There are up to 2 billion charts, maps, views, rankings, time series and tables available for use in the Data-Planet repository.
- U.S. Census: Data portalThe new platform to access data and digital content from the U.S. Census Bureau that replaced American FactFinder. data.census.gov
- Statista This link opens in a new windowStatista provides statistical data on many topics including media, business, politics, society, technology and education. Sources include market reports, trade publications, scientific journals, and government databases. Data can be accessed by searching or browsing by industry, topic, country, digital market or infographic. The Global Consumer Survey offers a global perspective on consumption and media usage, covering the offline and online world of the consumer. It is designed to help marketers, planners and product managers understand consumer behavior and consumer interactions with brands.
- GoogleUse Google to find statistics and data. It's also helpful in identifying possible sources for the data i.e. who would collect this data and make it available.
Example searches:
organic produce prices
voter turnout data
Use the site filter to narrow to government website (.gov) results:
electoral college data site:.gov
organic produce prices site:.gov
More data and statistics guides
- Geospatial Data ResourcesWhile this list is not exhaustive, its goal is to identify and provide access to as wide a variety of online GIS data and resources as possible.