Merge MICS Datasets in Stata: Household + Women + Child

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will learn how to merge multiple datasets in Stata, specifically focusing on merging child data with already combined household and women data files from the MICS (Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys). This process is essential for anyone looking to conduct comprehensive data analysis using demographic data.

Step 1: Preparing Your Datasets

Before merging, ensure that you have the following datasets ready:

• hh.dta: Household-level data
• wm.dta: Women's data
• ch.dta: Child data

Practical Advice

• Download the MICS datasets from the MICS website.
• Make sure all datasets are in the same directory for easy access.

Step 2: Loading Datasets in Stata

Start Stata and load your household dataset.

1. Open Stata.
2. Use the following command to load the household data:

   use "hh.dta", clear
   

Practical Advice

• The clear option ensures that any previously loaded data is removed from memory.

Step 3: Merging Women Data

Next, merge the women's data with the household data.

1. Use the following command to merge:

   merge 1:1 id using "wm.dta"
   

   • Here, id is the unique identifier present in both datasets.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Ensure that the variable id exists in both datasets and is formatted the same way to avoid merge errors.

Step 4: Checking Merge Results

After merging, it's important to check the merge results.

1. Use the command:

   tab _merge
   

   • This command will display a summary of the merge status.

Practical Advice

• Review the results to ensure that the merge was successful. Look for any discrepancies or unmatched records.

Step 5: Merging Child Data

Now, merge the child data with the combined household and women data.

1. Use the following command:

   merge 1:m child_id using "ch.dta"
   

   • Replace child_id with the appropriate identifier for children.

Practical Advice

• The 1:m indicates a one-to-many relationship, which is common in datasets where multiple children belong to a single household.

Step 6: Verifying Final Merge

Once the child data is merged, verify the final results.

1. Run:

   tab _merge
   

Key Points to Check

• Ensure that all records are accounted for. Look for any unmatched records and resolve any issues.

Conclusion

In this tutorial, we covered the essential steps to merge MICS datasets in Stata, focusing on household, women, and child data. Remember to prepare your datasets, use the correct merge commands, and verify your results to ensure a successful merge. For further learning, explore the previous tutorials on Stata, including data manipulation and analysis techniques. Happy data analyzing!