Chapter Introduction

16

Selecting the Right
Statistical Test

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

  • Define the different tasks of statistics.

  • Select the correct statistical test.

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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.

16.1 Review of Statistical Tasks

16.2 Descriptive Statistics

16.3 Hypothesis Tests I: Difference Tests

16.4 Hypothesis Tests II: Relationship Tests