Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
item sums
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "item sums" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts involving calculations or aggregations of values associated with specific items, such as in accounting or data analysis. Example: "The report includes a detailed breakdown of item sums for each category of expenses."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
Alternative expressions(1)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
1 human-written examples
As another way to assess 'relations to other variables validity', we examined associations (Pearson's correlation coefficients) between the 10 ACT concepts (using item means or item sums as appropriate, without the items that had been deleted from the factor models) and instrumental research utilization - a variable that we expected to depend on the contextual features measured by the ACT.
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
59 human-written examples
Cronbach's alpha was calculated as an internal consistency measure of precision of item sum scores for each construct.
The scores are in the range of 0 6 for each item, summing to a total score in the range of 0 24, where higher scores indicate worse symptoms.
The three items sum to a total net worth of $987,697.
News & Media
§All checklist items summed.
Science
The first method was to sum the numeric response codes for all 14 items (sum OHIP-14).
Science
Negative items were reverse scored, and the 29 items summed (range 58 133, mean 98.17), higher scores representing more positive attitudes.
Therefore, tables provide only results using block face A. * Items sum for the rating scale (range 0 15 points for Block Face A).
Science
For each academic year, we created sub-items summing up the theoretical examinations and practicum sessions (simulation and bedside practicum).
Science
The 36 items sum up to eight scale scores, ranging from 0 to 100 (100 indicates the best possible health outcome).
Science
To assess the degree of disaster exposure a scale was made of the twelve items (sum-score).
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "item sums", ensure clarity about what constitutes an "item" in your context. This prevents ambiguity and ensures accurate interpretation of the data.
Common error
Avoid directly comparing "item sums" across different scales without considering the direction of the scale (e.g., whether higher scores indicate better or worse outcomes). Always normalize or reverse-code items as needed before summing to ensure meaningful comparisons.
Source & Trust
85%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "item sums" primarily functions as a noun phrase referring to the aggregated totals derived from individual items. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct. In research, as seen in the Ludwig examples, this often involves questionnaire responses or scale values.
Frequent in
Science
100%
Less common in
News & Media
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Academia
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "item sums" is a grammatically sound noun phrase predominantly used in scientific and technical contexts to describe the aggregated totals of individual items. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. While its occurrence is relatively rare, it serves the critical function of quantifying and summarizing data. When using the phrase, ensure clarity regarding what constitutes an "item" in your context to avoid ambiguity and enhance interpretability. Alternative expressions include "total of items" and "sum of items", which can be used interchangeably based on stylistic preference.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
Sum of items
Reverses the order of the words while retaining the core meaning.
Item sum totals
Combines "item sum" with "totals" to indicate that the items have been summed to create a total.
Total of items
Replaces "sum" with "total", emphasizing the aggregate quantity.
Total itemized values
Indicates that the total value of each item is considered and summed up.
Aggregated item values
Uses "aggregated" to highlight the collection process and "values" to specify what is being summed.
Combined item amounts
Substitutes "sum" with "combined", focusing on the merging of quantities.
Itemized totals
Emphasizes the creation of totals for individual items, implying a structured summation.
Summation of item scores
Specifically refers to scores, implying a rating or evaluation system.
Consolidated item figures
Uses "consolidated" to indicate the bringing together of item figures into a single amount.
Accumulated item quantities
Highlights the gradual accumulation of item quantities over time or across categories.
FAQs
How is "item sums" used in data analysis?
In data analysis, "item sums" is used to aggregate values associated with individual items, often within a survey or assessment, to create a composite score for further analysis.
What is an alternative to using "item sums" in statistical reports?
Instead of "item sums", you can use terms like "total item scores", "aggregated item values", or "sum of items" depending on the specific context.
When is it appropriate to calculate "item sums"?
It is appropriate to calculate "item sums" when you want to create a single, meaningful score from multiple related items, such as in a questionnaire or a test.
Are there any statistical considerations when using "item sums"?
Yes, it's important to consider the internal consistency and reliability of the items being summed, often assessed using measures like Cronbach's alpha, to ensure that the items are measuring a similar construct.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
85%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested