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CMST 220 Public Speaking: Finding statistics

This guide is to help you find good topics and evidence for your Informative or Persuasive/Position speeches in CMST& 220: Public Speaking.

Where Can I Find Statistics?

Strategies for Finding Statistics

  1. Many statistics are gathered by government agencies (for example, the U.S. Department of Energy) or large organizations (for example, The American Cancer Society.) To search within government websites, include "site:.gov" in a google or other search engine search.
  2. However, you can also find good statistics within books or journal, magazine or newspaper articles

  3. When you find statistics, check the source of the data.  In other words, does the book, article or website list where the statistics came from?  Do they come from a reputable or well-known source?  If not, attempt to find statistics from a more trustworthy source.

General Collections of Statistics

Katie's Most Recommended Statistics Search Tools

Good for "public opinion" polls

Good for "informational" statistics

  • Examples: cost or value of businesses or issues; health statistics; population statistics; education statistics; safety statistics; environmental statistics...
  • Try it out: Search your main topic keyword and "statistics" (Example: '"U.S. renters" statistics')

Additional Statistics Resources