Speaking Stata: Finding the denominator: Minimum sample size from percentages

Abstract

Percentage breakdowns for a series of classes or categories are sometimes reported without a specification of class frequencies or even the total sample size. This column surveys the problem of estimating the minimum sample size and class frequencies consistent with a reported breakdown and a particular resolution. I introduce and explain a new command, find_denom. Rounding quirks whereby a total is reported as above or below 100% are discussed as a complication.