Imputation is a method of determing values to replace missing data in the dataset. Imputation methods can draw from the nonmissing sample data as well as from information outside the sample. In NRI, imputation is also used for creating pseudo points to represent changes observed in PSU and county base data.
A statistical method used to generate values for missing items, designed to minimize the bias of estimates based on the resulting data set. In this survey, missing responses were generated using a procedure known as a "hot-deck imputation" which uses random resampling from similar nonmissing cases to generate values for missing cases.
Making an assumption about a missing value. E.g. if a survey respondent hasn't supplied his or her sex, and the person's occupation is Housewife, it's a reasonable imputation that the sex is female.
A statistical or logical technique by which missing data are inferred from other information provided by the respondent and/ or other respondents.
Imputation refers to the method used to estimate data for nonresponding institutions. For a more complete description of imputation, refer to the Methodology Report on the R&D expenditures survey.
The process by which one estimates missing values for items that a survey respondent failed to provide.
A procedure for entering an estimated value in a dataset when the actual value is missing or unusable. For example, in some cases it is possible to estimate a missing value by looking at previous years' data.
The filling in of plausible and consistent values for missing data.
When information is missing or inconsistent, the Census Bureau uses a method called imputation to assign values. Imputation relies on the statistical principle of "homogeneity," or the tendency of households within a small geographic area to be similar in most characteristics. For example, the value of "rented" is likely to be imputed for a housing unit not reported on owner/renter status in a neighborhood with multi-units or apartments where other respondents reported "rented" on the census questionnaire.
A statistical method used to fill in values for missing items, designed to minimize the bias of estimates. (See Hot-Deck Imputation and Appendix A, "How the Survey Was Conducted.")