The method
- Find the original publication rather than a shared screenshot. Record the series title, producer and link to any available methodological explanation.
- Note frequency, unit, territory and scope. Distinguish a stock from a change and the observation period from publication date; check whether values were revised.
- Compare values defined in the same way. If scopes differ, explain that difference in your commentary instead of immediately concluding that something rose or fell.
Fictional worked example
A fictional table shows 120 units in January and 132 in February. The change is 10% if both numbers cover the same set. If February adds a category, the arithmetic remains possible but may no longer describe change within a constant scope.
The record to keep
Keep series title, both values, their periods, unit, scope and consulted version. Add the formula if you calculate a result.
What this method can establish
An aggregate statistic does not describe every individual’s circumstances. This reading method provides no investment, credit or insurance recommendation.
Supporting documentation
Documentation consulted on
An editorial method, a fictional example and references for further reading.