Assignment 2: Use And Misuse Of Percentages Of The Co 782552

Assignment 2 Use And Misuse Of Percentagesone Of The Concepts You Enc

Assignment 2: Use and Misuse of Percentages One of the concepts you encountered in the readings this module was how to recognize the use and misuse of information presented in the form of percentages. In this discussion assignment, you will conduct an Internet search to find several examples of the use of percentages. These can be examples of percentages used in advertising claims, reported results from a study, or information shared by a government agency. In a minimum of 200 words, post to the Discussion Area your response to the following: Find an example of two of the following types of usage of percentages. Use of percentages as a fraction. Remember that this type will use the word of to imply multiplication. Explain whether this was an effective way to represent this information within the context of the example you found. Use of percentages to describe change. In the example you find, determine whether the reported percentage demonstrated absolute or relative change. Show your work. Explain whether this was an effective way to represent this information within the context of the example you found. Use of percentages for comparison. In the example you find, determine whether the reported percentage demonstrated absolute or relative change. Show your work. Explain whether this was an effective way to represent this information within the context of the example you found. Now, find an example of two of the following misuses of percentages. Use of a shifting reference value. In this situation, the base values are changing as differing values of percentages are applied as increases, decreases, or both. Percentage increases, decreases, or both do not have a cumulative effect. Be sure to demonstrate why your example fits this category. Use of percentage to represent less than nothing. Look for an example where you are seeing a reduction of some percentage greater than 100. Be sure to demonstrate why your example fits this category. Situation where the average percentage is reported. In general, you cannot average percentages. The result isn’t representative of what actually has occurred in the situation in question. Be sure to demonstrate why your example fits this category. By Sunday, February 15, 2015, post your response to the appropriate Discussion Area. Consider commenting on the following: Examine each example that the student provided. Did these examples sufficiently demonstrate the ways that percentages are used and misused? Explain. What have you learned regarding the necessity of carefully examining the percentages reported in advertising, news media, government reports, etc.?

Paper For Above instruction

In today’s data-driven environment, understanding how percentages are used and misused is crucial for critical analysis of information. Percentages serve as a powerful tool in presenting data, but their misuse can distort reality and mislead audiences. This essay explores both correct applications and common pitfalls in the use of percentages, illustrating with examples from various sources.

Examples of Proper Use of Percentages

One example of percentages used as a fraction can be found in advertising claims about product efficacy. For instance, a skincare product might claim, “70% of users experienced improved skin firmness.” This percentage represents a proportion of users who responded positively. To interpret this, consider a sample size of 100 people; 70 of them reported improvement. This usage effectively communicates the proportion of satisfied customers, making it understandable for consumers. However, it’s essential that the base sample size is transparent; otherwise, the percentage lacks context and can be misleading.

Regarding the use of percentages to describe change, a common case involves reporting the change in unemployment rates over a year. For example, an official report might state, “Unemployment decreased by 5% from 2019 to 2020.” Here, the 5% indicates relative change. If the unemployment rate was previously 10%, a 5% decrease would mean the new rate is 9.5% (10% - 5% of 10%). This method efficiently shows the dynamics over time, especially when relative change provides more perspective than absolute figures alone. It effectively communicates improvements or deteriorations in economic or health indicators when appropriately contextualized.

Examples of Misuse of Percentages

One common misuse involves shifting reference values, where the base for percentage calculations changes over time or across comparisons. For example, a company may report that “Sales increased by 30%,” but if the base sales figure was artificially lowered in previous reports, the percentage increase becomes misleading. A true increase should be calculated from a consistent baseline to accurately depict growth, but changing the reference point creates an illusion of momentum or decline.

Another misuse is reporting a percentage reduction greater than 100%, which implies a total elimination and possibly a negative or nonsensical outcome. For example, if a health report states, “Medication side effects decreased by 150%,” this suggests the side effects not only reduced to zero but somehow went beyond, which is impossible. This misapplication often results from misunderstanding how percentages work when reductions surpass the total quantity, leading to confusion and overstatement of benefits.

Lessons Learned

Analyzing these examples highlights the importance of critically evaluating how percentages are presented in media, reports, and advertising. Misleading or incorrect use can distort the true state of affairs, influencing public perception and decision-making. Therefore, it is essential to scrutinize the context, the baseline values, and whether the percentage change is absolute or relative. Recognizing misuse—such as shifting baselines or exaggerated reductions—can prevent misinterpretation and promote more informed decision-making.

Conclusion

Percentages are powerful but potentially misleading tools. Proper understanding and cautious interpretation are necessary to avoid being deceived by improper uses or misrepresentations. By carefully examining how percentages are reported, consumers and analysts can better discern reality from distorted claims, leading to more accurate assessments and smarter choices.

References

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