The best way to present the following data is. Out of 100 workers working in a factory, 18 smoke and 82 do no… - Raj. CHO -2024

Raj. CHO -2024

Nursing Research & Statistics

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Appeared in: Raj. CHO -2024

Explanation

A pie chart is the most suitable method for presenting data that represents parts of a whole.
The given data consists of two distinct categories (18 smokers and 82 non-smokers) that together make up the total population of 100 workers.
A pie chart visually represents these proportions as slices of a circle, making it easy to understand the relative size of each category in relation to the total.
This method is specifically designed for qualitative or categorical data where the focus is on percentage distribution.

Option A: A bar chart is used to compare the absolute values or frequencies of different categories. While it could display the number of smokers versus non-smokers, it is less effective at illustrating the proportional relationship of each group to the total workforce.
Option B: A line graph is used to display trends or changes in data over a continuous interval, typically time. The data provided is a static snapshot and does not involve a time-series.
Option C: A histogram is used to represent the frequency distribution of continuous data that has been grouped into intervals (e.g., age groups, blood pressure readings). The data in this question is categorical (smoker/non-smoker), not continuous.

Visual 1: Pie Chart - A circle divided into two slices, one labeled 'Smokers (18%)' and a much larger one labeled 'Non-smokers (82%)', to visually represent the proportion.
Visual 2: Table - A comparison table outlining the primary use cases for Pie Charts, Bar Charts, Line Graphs, and Histograms to clarify their distinct functions.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Methods of data presentation in statistics as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
In nursing research and public health, choosing the correct data presentation method is crucial for clear communication. Pie charts are often used to show the prevalence of a disease, the distribution of risk factors in a population, or patient demographic breakdowns.
For example, a pie chart could effectively display the percentage of patients in a clinic who are compliant versus non-compliant with their medication regimen.
What if? If the data also included the number of cigarettes smoked per day by the smokers, a histogram could be used to show the distribution of smoking intensity (e.g., number of workers smoking 1-5, 6-10, 11+ cigarettes per day), while a pie chart would still be used to show the overall smoker vs. non-smoker proportion.

How to Approach the Question

First, analyze the nature of the data provided. The data is '18 smoke' and '82 do not smoke' out of a total of 100. This is categorical data representing parts of a whole.
Next, consider the primary purpose of each chart type listed in the options.
A Line Graph shows trends over time. This data is for a single point in time, so eliminate this option.
A Histogram shows the distribution of continuous data. This data is categorical (smoker/non-smoker), not continuous, so eliminate this option.
A Bar Chart compares the values of different categories. It could work, but its main strength is comparison, not showing proportions.
A Pie Chart is specifically designed to show the proportional distribution of categories that make up a whole. Since 18 + 82 = 100, this data perfectly represents parts of a whole.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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