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Data management: A New Hope

Have you ever returned to your research data after Reviewer 2 requested additional analysis and thought “I have a bad feeling about this”?  

Worry no more, Star Wars Day is as good a day as any to revise how to manage your data properly so you wouldn’t have to fear the revenge of the reviewers. At least not because your data would be a mess. 

One of the tools to help you keep track of your research data is a data management plan - a document that describes what data will be created and how, helps you check that you have the necessary equipment and support in place, and outlines the plans for data sharing and preservation. 

Now Anakin Skywalker and his Padawan, Ahsoka Tano, are working on an analysis for the Supreme Chancellor Palpatine, who requires that their underlying data are meticulously documented. Unfortunately, both Anakin and Ahsoka are more skilled in lightsaber combat than in the art of documentation so their notes got all mixed up. Will you help them sort their notes in the proper sections of the data management plan and to save them from the Chancellor’s wrath? 

Always look after your data with care. This is the way.  

Happy Star Wars Day and may the Force be with you!  

(And beware cause tomorrow is the revenge of the 5th!)