Evidence Check: Frame the Question Before Touching the Data

Choose a real-world question that could be investigated with data. Do not collect personal data for this activity.

Your evidence

Create a one-page question-and-risk brief containing:

1. Question — one question that data could help answer.
2. Decision — who might use the answer and what decision it could influence.
3. Needed data — three fields or variables you would need.
4. Missing voices — one group or perspective the data could underrepresent.
5. Possible harm — one way a misleading conclusion could cause harm.
6. Boundary — one thing the data cannot prove by itself.

Check your reasoning

A strong brief separates what the data can measure from what a person might conclude. If your conclusion is stronger than the evidence, narrow the claim.

Done when

Someone else can read your brief and identify the question, decision, required data, ethical risk, and evidence boundary without asking what you meant.