What is the overall purpose of cross-tabulation?

The overall purpose of cross-tabulation is to show the joint distribution of values for two variables. This technique allows for a detailed examination of the relationship between the two variables by presenting their interactions in a table format. By organizing the data in this way, it becomes easier to analyze patterns and trends, as viewers can quickly see how one variable changes in relation to another.

For example, if one variable indicates a demographic characteristic such as age, and the other reflects a particular response to a survey, cross-tabulation can help identify how different age groups respond differently. This insight is invaluable for understanding complex data relationships and can guide decision-making based on observed connections.