KS2 Computing: Data and Information Guide

What is data?

Data is raw facts and figures, such as numbers, words or measurements. Once data is organised and given meaning, it becomes information.

Collecting and organising data

Data can be collected through surveys, sensors or by hand, then organised into tables, charts or databases to make it easier to understand and analyse.

Spreadsheets

A spreadsheet organises data into rows and columns (cells), and can use formulas to automatically calculate totals, averages and other results from that data.

Databases

A database stores organised sets of data that can be searched and sorted, such as a library catalogue or a school's record of pupils, letting you find specific information quickly.

Common mistakes

• Using "data" and "information" as if they mean exactly the same thing.
• Forgetting a spreadsheet formula needs to reference the correct cells to calculate correctly.
• Confusing sorting (arranging data in order) with searching (finding specific data).