Analysis of tables and graphs

Hey I was given an assignment to analyze certain data from tables and graphs for crime trends, can anyone give me tips or a site that can help me with analyzing and interpreting data?
Here’s an example of what it looks like:
[img]http://img266.imageshack.us/my.php?image=hmne7.jpg[/img]
Any help will be great thanks!
Answer #1
Im not quite sure what you are after, because each graph is specific depending on its input, but Ill try explain as well as I can:
The vertical line shows (that goes from 0-80) is what the crime perceptions were in relation to each year (horizontal line). So this graph shows the evolution of crime perception. Since the point that the analysis started (1996) to the end (2007) the trend is to drop, meaning there is LESS perception of crime.
If you look at the middle of the year 2001 (ironicaly – or not) was the year the world trade center was attacked, which would lead to a higher perception of crime in general.
The local area (doesnt say which one) has a lower perception of crime when compared to the rest of the country, which could also mean that is a safe are to live in.
I hope im not misleading you here, and that this helps you out!