# Types of Datasets A dataset (or data in general) can be viewed as a collection of items and attributes describing those items. We have two broad categories of datasets: 1. Tables 2. Networks & Trees ## Tables It is a collection of **rows** and **columns**, each row representing an item and each column an attribute. Ideally, every item should have values for all attributes i.e. no missing values. Also, all items have the same *type* of value for a given attribute. ## Networks & Trees They are used to represent **linked** items. The items are represented as **nodes** and they are connected using **links**. In trees, each node has only one parent. Both nodes and links can have attributes. --- # Agent Instructions: Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter: ``` GET https://vikram-bajaj.gitbook.io/cs-gy-6313-information-visualization/data-abstraction-and-transformation/types-of-datasets.md?ask= ``` The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.