16
Selecting the Right
Statistical Test
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Define the different tasks of statistics.
Select the correct statistical test.
CHAPTER OVERVIEW
Most people have a toolbox with a few tools in it. There’s probably a hammer, a screwdriver, and a pair of pliers. Most people know that if a screw has to be tightened, a pair of pliers won’t be much use, so they reach for the screwdriver. Statistical tests are tools—pliers, screwdrivers, and hammers—designed for different research jobs. This book has filled your statistical toolbox with a set of tools for the most commonly encountered statistical jobs. Now it is time to learn how to pick the right statistical tool for the particular research job at hand.