1. About this guide

This reference guide is intended for users of the 2011 Geographic Attribute File. The guide provides an overview of the file, the general methodology used to create it, and important technical information for users.

A record layout is provided in section 4, Technical specifications. Users of the 2011 Census Geographic Attribute File in an ASCII format (.txt) can refer to the record layout to identify the order and logical record length of each variable in the file. The variables appear in the same order within the Excel format file (.xlsx), though the variables are set into separate columns.

Section 5, Data quality, provides information for users to evaluate the suitability of the data for a particular application.

This data product is provided 'as-is,' and Statistics Canada makes no warranty, either express or implied, including but not limited to, warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. In no event will Statistics Canada be liable for any direct, special, indirect, consequential or other damages, however caused.