Data range and plausibility rulebook ==================================== StatMedAnalysis | Original downloadable worksheet | 6 November 2026 Separate impossible values from unusual but plausible measurements. How to use this worksheet For each variable, distinguish physical or definitional bounds from expected clinical ranges. Add cross-field checks only when the relationship is scientifically required. Test synthetic valid extremes and impossible cases. Record a query-and-resolution process rather than automatically deleting flagged observations. Save a working copy and keep the original blank version. Use public, hypothetical or aggregate information only; do not enter patient identifiers, credentials or confidential records. Keep source evidence in your approved project workspace. Mark unresolved text fields UNKNOWN or NOT REPORTED with a reason; never substitute zero for an unknown count. Project/version __________________ Prepared by role/date __________________ Working fields 1. Variable and unit Response/evidence: _________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ 2. Hard validity bounds and source Response/evidence: _________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ 3. Soft plausibility bounds and rationale Response/evidence: _________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ 4. Cross-field relationship Response/evidence: _________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ 5. Missing and special codes exempted Response/evidence: _________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ 6. Synthetic pass/fail cases Response/evidence: _________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ 7. Query and correction policy Response/evidence: _________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ 8. Retained unusual-value explanation Response/evidence: _________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ Hypothetical worked case A fictional duration cannot be negative under its definition, but a long positive duration may be genuine. The former needs a validity investigation; the latter should trigger review rather than automatic exclusion. Decision rule and limitations Use hard failures only for genuinely impossible representations. Preserve original values and correction evidence; unusual does not mean erroneous. Decision _______________________ Remaining uncertainty ____________________ Next action ____________________ Owner / review date ______________________ Independent check and discrepancy resolution _______________________________ Official method or reporting reference checked 6 November 2026 https://ukdataservice.ac.uk/learning-hub/research-data-management/ This is an original planning aid, not an official checklist, validated instrument, clinical recommendation or certificate of expert approval. Apply the referenced guidance to the specific design and record any additional requirements.