Question

What are the five basic steps of a statistical study? Use an example to illustrate the process of applying these steps.

Answer 1

Five basic steps in Statistical Study:

I. Identifying the question first

For example:

(i)What is the question?  

(ii)Is the data obtainable?

(iii)Are the assumptions reasonable?

(iv)Is it ethical to obtain such data?

(v)If not, is there a reasonable substitute?

II. Designing a Study

To design a study we need to Identify the population of interest

• Survey
  • Obtain a representative sample of that population(kind of sampling)
  • Sources of Bias
• Observational Studies
• Designing an Experiment
• EDA - Exploratory Data Analysis (trends, relationships, differences)
• Pilot Study

III. Collecting Data

• Identify variables and its types of variables whether it is qualitative or quantitative
• Identify Limits of measurement or observation

IV. Analyze the data

And identify whether it is descriptive or inferential statistics.

• Descriptive statistics: present frequency distribution tables and graphs
• Inferential statistics: use of proper procedures and techniques to infer population parameters and relation.
• Check the assumptions behind the procedures and techniques.

V. Make Conclusions and Discuss Limitations

• Interpretation can be made on the basis of the results for the analysis and answer the original hypotheses.
• Explain the limitations of the study.
• Identify conclusions that the study could not make.