Chapter 2 Descriptive Statistics
Chapter 2 Descriptive Statistics
Data Entry and Computing a New Variable
Opening SPSS
Because every computer center has different procedures for accessing computers and various computer packages you will need to consult with your instructor to learn how to open SPSS.
Once open, the first screen you will see is much like the generic spreadsheet in Figure 3.1 and exactly like Figure 3.2 (but without any data entered)
The first step is to go to “Variable View” by clicking on those words at the bottom of the Data View screen.
SPSS Data View
SPSS Variable View
Name Variables The first step is to name your variables. We will put in two variables (Height and Weight) Next we go across the row for each of the two variables and input information about them.
Insert Variable Names and Describe Them
Insert Data
Calculate BMI BMI =((Weight in pounds)/(Height2 in inches)) X 703
Click on TransformCompute On main SPSS toolbar. This will open a Compute Variable screen.
Compute Variable Screen
Type in Equation for BMI Type “BMI” in Target Variable box, In the Numeric Expression box, type in algebraic instructions, and click OK. (You can type in variable names or highlight them under the “Type and Label” column and the little arrow in the box) You will get an “output screen” saying “execute” Click on the upper left red button and then on the “No” button on the “Save contents” box.
Filled in Compute Variable Screen
BMI Values Appear in Data View
Data Entry and Computing a New Variable
Opening SPSS
Because every computer center has different procedures for accessing computers and various computer packages you will need to consult with your instructor to learn how to open SPSS.
Once open, the first screen you will see is much like the generic spreadsheet in Figure 3.1 and exactly like Figure 3.2 (but without any data entered)
The first step is to go to “Variable View” by clicking on those words at the bottom of the Data View screen.
SPSS Data View
SPSS Variable View
Name Variables The first step is to name your variables. We will put in two variables (Height and Weight) Next we go across the row for each of the two variables and input information about them.
Insert Variable Names and Describe Them
Insert Data
Calculate BMI BMI =((Weight in pounds)/(Height2 in inches)) X 703
Click on TransformCompute On main SPSS toolbar. This will open a Compute Variable screen.
Compute Variable Screen
Type in Equation for BMI Type “BMI” in Target Variable box, In the Numeric Expression box, type in algebraic instructions, and click OK. (You can type in variable names or highlight them under the “Type and Label” column and the little arrow in the box) You will get an “output screen” saying “execute” Click on the upper left red button and then on the “No” button on the “Save contents” box.
Filled in Compute Variable Screen
BMI Values Appear in Data View
