Frequency distribution tables for grouped data and
ungrouped data
A frequency distribution table is used to display the frequency of each data set in an
organized way. This helps us to easily find patterns in the data and also enables us to
analyze the data using measures of central tendency and variance . It has columns
containing the variable and their frequencies.
A GROUP DATA FREQUENCY DISTRIBUTION TABLE
This is a table that represents categories/classes in the form of class intervals. It is used for
large datasets.
In this type of distribution table , the data categories are divided into various class intervals
with the same width. For example, intervals like 0-10, 10-20, 20-30.
The frequency of each class interval is then recorded against the respective interval. Here is
an example of Group data frequency table.
Class intervals
Frequency(F)
10- 20
3
20-30
7
30-40
12
40-50
23
50-60
1
What is ungrouped data?
This is a form of organizing information where each individual value is listed
separately without being grouped into intervals. Each distinct value in the data
set is presented individually. This is the most common type of data
organization and representation when dealing with relatively small data sets.
What is cumulative frequency?
This is a summation of frequencies in a frequency distribution table. You add a
frequency to the total of the previous frequencies.
It is useful when analyzing the overall distribution and identifying patterns.
What is relative frequency ?
This Is the proportion of the total dataset that a particular class interval or
value represents. It is calculated by diving the frequency of a class interval by
the total number of observations and is often presented as a percentage.
Types of Frequency Distributions
1. Simple frequency distribution
- This is a basic table where data values are listed against their
frequencies .
2. Cumulative frequency distribution
- This table includes another column containing the cumulative
frequency.
3. Relative frequency distribution
- This distribution contains the relative frequency as another column in
addition to all the other columns i.e simple frequency and cumulative
frequency .
Importance of distribution frequency tables
1. Organizing information
- Arranges data systematically making it easier to understand and
interpret
2. Identifying patterns
- By displaying the frequency it helps in identifying patterns
3. Summarizing data
4. Statistical analysis
- They are foundational for statistical analysis, aiding in computations
of measures like mean, median, and mode
5. Comparison
- They allow for comparison of different groups or categories, enabling
effective decision making
6. Research and surveys
- Aid researchers in drawing conclusions
7. Data interpretation
8. Visualizing data
9. Quality control
10.Educational purposes