Metadata for Data Management: A Tutorial: Best Practices
Research Hub
Metadata Best Practices
Good data documentation is essential in order to find, use, share, and manage data, especially over time. This includes information such as:
- The context of data (why and how data was collected)
- The structure of data
- Quality assurance that data is complete and uncorrupted
- Information on data confidentiality, access and use conditions (where applicable)
- Identification and tracking of different versions of datasets
Resources for More Information
-
All Best Practices (DataONE)This is an alphabetical list of many best practices for metadata.
-
Best Practices for Writing MetadataThis guide from the United States Geographical Survey includes tips for writing high quality metadata, detailed information for creating a title in metadata, and selecting informative keywords.
-
Data Management Plan GuideThis UNC Libraries guide discusses what goes into a data management plan, agency guidelines, and useful tools.
-
Educational Modules on Metadata (DataONE)These modules on metadata (and many other data-related topics) are Powerpoint slides for you own use or to incorporate into teaching.
-
Primer on Data Management: What you always wanted to know (DataONE)This primer gives a detailed overview of data management throughout the research life cycle.
Still have questions?
Email them to dataplan@listserv.unc.edu
Finished!
Connect with us
