A method is provided for characterizing data sets containing data points. The method can characterize the data sets as random or as non-random. In the method, a convex hull envelope is constructed which contains the data points and passes through at least four non-coplanar data points. The convex hull envelope is partitioned into cells. The method classifies the data set as a sized sample. Based on the classification, a predetermined set of tests is selected for operating on the data set.