  We parametrize the small x, singlet component of the proton structure
function F_2 by powers and logarithms of 1/x for discrete values of Q^2 between
0.2 and 2000 GeV^2, and compare these parametrizations by applying the
criterion of minimal $\chi^2$. The obtained values of the fitted parameters may
be used to study the evolution of F_2 in Q^2 and/or in discriminating between
dynamical models. A slowing-down in the increase of F_2 towards highest
available values of Q^2 is revealed. The effect is quantified in terms of the
derivative ${\frac{d\ell n F_2(x,Q^2)}{{d\ell n (1/x)}}}$.
