Data Entry

Data entry, which is the process of entering the responses into a database, is initiated soon after the survey begins. This is done so that any irregularities or discrepancies are corrected as the fieldwork is in progress.

While pre-coded questions can be directly entered, in the open-ended questions, similar answers need to be grouped into categories and coded manually.

There are several data entry packages in the market such as CS Pro and ISSA (Integrated Survey Systems Analysis). Among the most common data entry package is Microsoft Excel, which can be used for data entry and first level analysis.

Accuracy checks need to be carried out through cross checks and running frequencies and means. Once the data entry exercise is completed, data analysis can be carried out.

(for details go to Module 8 in the website www.citizenreportcard.com)