Analyst checklist

Start this checklist for any project where you think you may use ACS data.

1. Create a documentation file to fill in and update as you go

   • Can be as simple as a Word document with clear sections and a record of your decisions and reasoning

2. Confirm the ACS is the best data source for your project.

3. Based on your project needs, select either the 1-year or 5-year data

   • Document what you chose and why

4. Find and download your tables

   • Search on the Open Data Portal (as these are pre-calculated for San Francisco)

   • Search on the data.census.gov site

   • Only resort to microdata if absolutely necessary

   • Document the specific table and variable names (if there were multiple options, describe what you chose and why)

5. Analyze the data tables

   • Evaluate statistical reliability using MOEs and CVs on your key tables

   • Validate the statistical significance for any key findings you are planning to highlight

   • Ground-truth your findings with community and experts

   • Document your steps and key findings

6. Deliver findings with context and any relevant data limitations

   • Include your documentation with table names and data cleaning steps