Statistics are data which have been analyzed and interpreted, and often presented in tables or as charts. Data sets are collections of raw numeric measurements which have not yet been analyzed. Because of the wide range of statistics available, it can be difficult to know where to start. Here are a few strategies:

• Government agencies and nonprofit organizations often collect, analyze, and publish extensive statistical data. A quick way to find these agencies is to limit your Google search to either a .gov (U.S. government) or .org (organization) website.  To do this, enter your search term and "site:(.gov or .org)" 

Example: CRIME STATISTICS SITE:GOV 

When you locate an agency or organization which collects statistics on your topic, also try limiting your search to just that site. Example (using the Department of Justice site): CRIME STATISTICS SITE:WWW.USDOJ.GOV

• Statistical tables and charts are often included in journal articles about your topic. When searching in journal article databases, include terms such as STATISTICS with your search terms.

• If you are conducting an in-depth research project and need to analyze raw data, there are many sources available online. One important provider of data set in the Social Sciences is the Inter-University Consortium for Political and Social Research (ICPSR).