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How to inspect variables and request microdata: MDAT and custom tables
Summary
The Microdata Access Tool (MDAT) helps users inspect survey variables and code values; attendees were told the Census API can be used for pulls, and that the ACS accepts formal custom-table requests subject to disclosure review.
Obradovich demonstrated the Microdata Access Tool (MDAT) to show how researchers can inspect questionnaire items, variable codes and tabulation options before attempting to extract or request tables. "This is where you're gonna see all of pretty much the topics that are involved and then what might have been the answer," she said when showing CPS variables.
She advised that if data.census.gov does not expose a needed table or variable, the American Community Survey accepts formal custom-table requests (subject to privacy/disclosure review) and the Census API can be used for programmatic access to public tables. Obradovich encouraged users to contact a regional data dissemination specialist for help preparing formal requests or interpreting MDAT output.
