Statistics and Probability Dictionary
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Statistics
Statistics is a discipline that allows researchers to evaluate conclusions
derived from sample data. In practice, statistics refers to a scientific
approach used to:
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Collect data.
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Interpret and analyze data.
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Assess the reliability of conclusions based on sample data.
For example, a researcher may ask which medicine is more effective - Drug A or
Drug B. The researcher could use the tools of statistics to design a study to
compare the two drugs. Using statistical methods, the researcher might conclude
with 95% confidence that one medicine was superior to the other.