Nominal data, also called categorical data, does not have does not have a natural sequence. Instead, the data is typically in named categories or labels without numeric significance.

For example, a survey question that asks for a favorite beverage, with choices of coffee, tea, water, or milk will generate nominal data in 4 categories as in the above bar chart.

When you hear "nominal", think "named" as in "named categories". Other examples of nominal data would be male/female, eye color, make of car, etc.

Support Exceljet

Many websites (including Exceljet) have lost over half their traffic in the past year because of the crushing impact of AI on web searches. Exceljet is still at it, publishing free content each week. If you find Exceljet helpful, you can support the site and go ad-free with the Exceljet Lifetime Pass. One payment, no subscription, and ads are gone forever. Plus, you get our Excel Shortcuts video course as a thank you.

Get the Lifetime Pass