Statistics How To

Statistics Definitions > Have you ever wondered how scientists and researchers make predictions about the future or look for patterns in data? The answer lies in statistical modeling. The definition of statistical modeling is to use of mathematical models and statistical assumptions to generate sample data and make predictions about the real world. In this … Read more

Statistics Definitions > Iterative methods are mathematical processes used to solve a wide range of problems. In essence, they use the data generated from a problem’s initial value and repetitively test that same data until the desired result is obtained. If you’ve ever done a math problem or worked on a computer algorithm, chances are … Read more

Descriptive Statistics > Symmetric Distribution A symmetric distribution is a type of distribution where the left side of the distribution mirrors the right side. A symmetric distribution is never skewed . The normal distribution is symmetric. It is also a unimodal distribution (it has one peak). Distributions don’t have to be unimodal to be symmetric. … Read more

Regression Analysis > When most people think of regression analysis, they think of Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression. OLS regression is a great tool and has its place, but it’s not the be-all and end-all of regression analyses. In fact, for some situations, you’re better off using quantile regression. Quantile regression is a type of … Read more

Statistics Definitions > What is Simpson’s Paradox? What is Simpson’s Paradox?: Overview. Simpson’s Paradox is a classic example of how statistics can be wrong. The paradox is that averages can be silly and misleading. Sometimes they can be just plain baffling. An example of Simpson’s Paradox: Votes case in a recent election: 120,045. Number of … Read more

Inferential Statistics > In predictive modeling, boosting is an iterative ensemble method that starts out by applying a classification algorithm. The boosted classifications are then assessed, and a second round of model-fitting occurs in which the records classified incorrectly in the first round are given a higher weight in the second round. This boosting procedure … Read more

Statistics Definitions > What is a Population in Statistics? What is a Population in Statistics? A population is every member of a group. It is is the opposite of a sample, which is a fraction or percentage of a group. Sometimes it’s possible to survey every member of a group. A classic example of a … Read more

Probability and Statistics >Basic Statistics > What is a Statistic? Contents: What is a Statistic? What is the Difference Between Inferential and Descriptive Statistics? Notation Data & Variables Vital Statistics & Estimators What is a Statistic? A statistic is a piece of data from a portion of a population. It’s the opposite of a parameter … Read more

Statistics Definitions > Contents: What is a Normal Probability Plot? Make one by hand Excel instructions Normal probability plots in Minitab What is a Normal Probability Plot? When you have a set of data that you think might have a normal distribution (i.e., a bell curve), a graph of your data can help you decide … Read more

Randomized Clinical Trial (RCT): Simple Definition, Phases, and Types > In clinical research, an adaptive design is a type of experimental design that allows for modifications to the study based on data collected during the course of the study. Adaptive designs can make clinical trials more flexible and efficient by allowing for changes to be … Read more