Tally marks

A tally is used as a tool to determine the frequency of occurrence of certain characteristics or events. For this purpose, possible features or events are pre- determined and plotted with each other. A tally uses the Unärsystem.

Even in the Stone Age, long before the invention of writing, numbers were in the form of dot -like notches marked (→ notched wood).

Use

In a data collection events or attributes can be counted using a tally. For each occurrence of the corresponding entry on the list, a vertical line is set. It is customary that every fifth line is drawn horizontally, and the last four strokes by stroking. Through the five groups thus formed, the clarity is enhanced when evaluating.

For example, could be counted at a traffic count how many cars and pedestrians pass a junction. The tally sheet may be extended during processing with additional features or events. Thus, in the traffic counting a new feature cyclists could be added.

After completion of the observation can be determined by counting the number of strokes for each feature or event whose absolute frequency. From this, the total number of features or events whose relative frequency, and other statistical measures can be calculated.

Tally found inter alia in quality assurance application. You are here used, for example, to determine error accumulations.

The concept of counting is manifest since Herman Hollerith as a function in the tabulating machines, a basic function of data processing.

Representation

When performing a tally on paper or a chalkboard the formation of blocks facilitates the reading of the sum. To this end, the formation of five blocks has prevailed, but their presentation is subject to different regional.

Alternatives

Also hand counters are used instead of bar lists today. By pressing a button or a lever the counter each one turns on. If necessary, the counter can be reset to zero.

Counter can also be written as software, such as an application for mobile phones.

Where it comes to high speeds at which a person would no longer keep up, automatic counting devices are used. For example, is counted in industrial production with video cameras.

Another alternative is Zählnadeln dar. In surveying (geodesy ) they serve the labeling of longitudinal sections. These sections of the same length can be as simple counted and added together are.