Sociologist how-to

How to Use Census Data for Research

Census data is a powerful free resource.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Census data is a powerful free resource. In short: pick; choose; choose, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Pick the dataset.

  2. Choose geography.

  3. Choose variables.

  4. Download.

  5. Check margins of error.

  6. Analyze.

Safety reminders for sociologists

  • Protect participant privacy
  • Follow IRB rules
  • Store data securely
  • Report findings honestly

Qualitative research · Quantitative research · Sample · IRB · Literature review · Socialization: see the full sociologist glossary.

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