UNC-Wilmington
Department of Economics and Finance
ECN 377
Dr. Chris Dumas
Regression Analysis--Dataset Types
Previously we have discussed variable types and data files types. In this handout we discuss Dataset Types. The
Dataset Type is important because (1) some kinds of analyses and tests apply only to some types of datasets, and
(2) some problems in regression analysis occur more often with some types of datasets.
The Dataset Type is determined by where and when the data are collected. Four of the most common dataset
types are described below:

Cross-Section Dataset. A dataset in which data are collected on multiple individuals (people, firms,
counties, states, countries, etc.) at a single point in time.

Time-Series Dataset. A dataset in which data are collected at multiple points in time for a single
individual (firm, county, state, country, etc.).

Time-Series / Cross-Section Dataset. A dataset in which data are collected on multiple individuals at
multiple points in time, and some or all of the individuals are different individuals at each point in time.
Example: A survey is conducted every year, and a different random sample of people is surveyed each
year.

Panel Dataset. A dataset in which data are collected on multiple individuals at multiple points in time,
and all of the individuals are the same individuals at each point in time. Example: A random sample of
people is surveyed one year, and the same people are contacted again and surveyed again each year
thereafter.
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