CNSL 503: A GUIDE TO A+. QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
FORMAT.LATEST UPDATE
Statistics
Encompass the mathematical field and allow us to organize, summarize, describe, and interpret
different forms of information
Why are stats important?
1. Allow data to be described succinctly and concisely; a means by which researchers communicate their
work with each other and how they relate findings to the general public in a way that is clear and
understandable
2. Allow inferences to be drawn about data when it is not feasible to collect information from all
members of a certain group
3. Equip us with the tools needed to make everyday decisions
Variable
Measurable characteristics that can vary in value
Qualitative
Measured in non-numerical terms using labels or categories
Quantitative
Measured in numerical terms
Discrete variable
Can be separated into categories or counted using whole numbers
E.g. Number of patients in a hospital - you can't have half a patient
Continuous variable
Can be broken down in infinitely smaller fractional components
E.g. Temperature, length, volume, time, and speed
Independent variable
the variable that is manipulated in an experiment
E.g. Cups of coffee given to exam participants (1, 2, or 3 cups)
Dependent variable
Variable that is measured for any observable effect
E.g. Scores on the exam after coffee is given to participants
Control variable
FORMAT.LATEST UPDATE
Statistics
Encompass the mathematical field and allow us to organize, summarize, describe, and interpret
different forms of information
Why are stats important?
1. Allow data to be described succinctly and concisely; a means by which researchers communicate their
work with each other and how they relate findings to the general public in a way that is clear and
understandable
2. Allow inferences to be drawn about data when it is not feasible to collect information from all
members of a certain group
3. Equip us with the tools needed to make everyday decisions
Variable
Measurable characteristics that can vary in value
Qualitative
Measured in non-numerical terms using labels or categories
Quantitative
Measured in numerical terms
Discrete variable
Can be separated into categories or counted using whole numbers
E.g. Number of patients in a hospital - you can't have half a patient
Continuous variable
Can be broken down in infinitely smaller fractional components
E.g. Temperature, length, volume, time, and speed
Independent variable
the variable that is manipulated in an experiment
E.g. Cups of coffee given to exam participants (1, 2, or 3 cups)
Dependent variable
Variable that is measured for any observable effect
E.g. Scores on the exam after coffee is given to participants
Control variable
