Stats CH 1

Statistics

are mathematical techniques used by social scientists to organize and manipulate data for the purpose of answering questions and testing theories. It is the process of collecting data and making decisions based on the analyze of these data.

Behavioral sciences

are based on empirical research

Empirical

means knowledge obtained through observation of events.

Statistical notation

The standardized code for symbolizing the mathematical operations performed in the formulas and for symbolizing the answers we obtain.

Proportion

The frequency of the items in one category divided by the total frequency of all items.
A decimal number between 0 and 1 that indicates a fraction of the total.

Percent

A proportion multiplied by 100.

X or Y

each individual score obtained in a study.

N

Number of subjects, scores, or quantities in a set.

Sigma

Sum of all quantities or scores following the symbol

Subscript,i

A variable that can take on any value.