Numerical digits other than zero. Unfortunately, when presenting forecasts, analysts sometimes let the computer determine the number of digits to report. The use of many digits gives a false sense of precision. In the social sciences, one is often uncertain about the second digit, yet analysts often provide four or five digits, such as a forecast of 14,332. The figure 14,000 might be regarded as “less scientific,” but it is easier to read and remember. A good rule of thumb is to use three significant digits unless the measures do have greater precision and the added precision is needed by the decision maker.