Arithmetic and figures.
TWO DIFFERENT PROBLEMS
Calculation errors: it did the sum wrong
Invented figures: it produced a statistic that does not exist
FOR CALCULATIONS
Never accept one. Use a spreadsheet or a calculator.
Models perform arithmetic unreliably and present results confidently.
FOR STATISTICS AND MARKET DATA
Ask for market size, growth rates or industry averages and you receive invented numbers.
Using those in a business plan or a funding application is serious.
WHAT TO DO
Find the real figure from a real source Cite the source, not the model
FOR ANALYSIS
Do the calculation yourself. Supply the result. Ask for interpretation and prose.
THAT IS THE CORRECT DIVISION
Spreadsheet for numbers. AI for commentary.
THE RULE
Every number in anything you publish should have a source you can name.
