C-R21

Missing and uncertain values — Reference record

Not observed, not recorded and uncertain are different states. They should remain distinguishable from a numeric zero.

Missing and uncertain values
Illustrative reference; not a tested product or a certification.
Reference recordWorking notes
OverviewMissing and uncertain values
Practical exampleUse separate status fields for missing context and uncertain attribute interpretation.
Limits and interpretationA blank cell must not silently become a zero in a later chart.
Document controlReference edition 2026.11
Measurements and examples are descriptive, not acceptance criteria.

Related references