UGC NET Paper 1 Notes – Data Interpretation + MCQs
Main Objective: Assess your ability to understand, interpret, and analyse data in various forms, including tables, graphs, charts, and case-based formats using both quantitative and qualitative perspectives.
Syllabus Breakdown & What to Focus On
| Subtopic | What to Study | Key Pointers |
| 1. Sources, Acquisition and Interpretation of Data | – Sources: Surveys, census, reports, journals, websites
– Acquisition: Collection methods (primary/secondary) – Interpretation: Identify trends, make comparisons, draw conclusions |
Focus on real-world sources like NSSO, Census 2011, NCERT data, UNESCO reports. Know the difference between raw data and processed information. |
| 2. Quantitative and Qualitative Data | – Quantitative: Numerical data (e.g., marks, height)
– Qualitative: Descriptive data (e.g., gender, opinions) – Types of variables: continuous/discrete – Use cases in education and research |
Learn to classify and differentiate. Mixed datasets may appear in questions—identify the dominant type. |
| 3. Graphical Representation and Mapping of Data | – Bar graphs, pie charts, line graphs, histograms, tables
– Interpret percentage, ratios, growth trends, comparisons |
Focus on: • Reading hidden values • Calculating percentage changes • Comparing segments across graphs or time intervals |
Data Interpretation Skills to Build
| Skill | Example | Tip |
| Trend Analysis | Line graph showing literacy rate over 5 years | Look for increase, decrease, consistency |
| Ratio & Percentage | Pie chart on budget allocation | Calculate part-to-whole or segment comparison |
| Table Reading | Student enrolment across years and courses | Watch units (lakhs, crores), row-column totals |
| Mixed Data | Bar + table + passage | Break into parts and solve step-by-step |
Smart Study Tips
- Practise 3–4 DI sets daily (table, bar, pie, combo).
- Memorise quick percentage-to-fraction conversions (e.g., 25% = ¼).
- Use rough sheets to calculate, don’t try mentally under exam pressure.
- Watch out for units, scales, and year gaps.
- Improve speed with timed practice sets.