Presenting gender statistics

 

PREPARING USER-FRIENDLY TABLES

 

In designing tables for gender analysis, one must always keep in mind that the tables should highlight gender issues and facilitate comparisons between women and men. Although tables are an efficient way to display larger amounts of relevant information, one must not overload them.

 

Tables can vary from simple lists to ones with a very complex multi-dimensional format. They can be further distinguished into text tables and annex tables. The construction of tables for gender statistics follows the general rules for constructing statistical tables. Regardless of the complexity involved in determining the content of a table, a few simple recommendations will help make your table more user-friendly.

 

In order to allow for easy comparison, data on women and men should always be presented side by side (and not in two different tables). Interpretation is facilitated when percentages are shown. There are basically two ways to present gender differentials in tables:

• Percentages calculated by column - the figure represents the percentage of women/men with a certain characteristic A, B, … of the total women/men. These percentages show the distribution of women or men according to the variable in question.
• Percentages calculated by row - the figure represents the percentage of the population (women/men) that possesses a certain characteristic. These percentages indicate the sex distribution for a certain characteristic. Alternatively, the sex ratio might be presented, i.e. women per 100 men.

Both types of percentages are useful for gender analysis since the magnitude of the characteristic as well as the distribution between the sexes can be shown. A basic table showing absolute values as well as both types of percentages is given as a typical example for a table that helps facilitate the analysis and presentation of statistics identified as relevant for gender analysis.