Vocab Quiz #6

Descriptive Statistics

A branch of statistics that involves describing and summarizing the main features of a dataset.

Inferential Statistics

A branch of statistics focused on making inferences and predictions about a population based on a sample of data.

Measures of Central Tendency

Statistical measures that describe the central or typical value of a dataset (Mean, Median, Mode).

Skew

The degree of asymmetry in a distribution; positive skew is to the right, negative skew is to the left.

Normal Curve / Bell Curve

A symmetrical distribution that is bell-shaped with a single peak.

Measures of Variability

Measures that describe the spread or dispersion of a dataset (Standard Deviation & Range).

Frequency Distributions

A table that summarizes the number of data points that fall within each category or interval.

Histogram

A graphical representation of a frequency distribution, displaying the distribution of data across intervals.

Scatter Plot

A graphical representation of the relationship between two variables, plotted as points on a graph.

Statistical Significance

The probability of obtaining a particular result by chance, determining the meaningfulness of results.

Correlational Coefficient

A statistical measure describing the strength and direction of the relationship between two variables.

Third Variable Problem

A common issue in correlational research where a third variable influences the relationship between two variables.

Correlation does not mean Causation

The principle that correlation between two variables does not imply that one causes the other.

Illusory Correlation

A perceived relationship between two variables that does not exist, often influenced by selective attention.

Percentile Rank

A measure indicating the percentage of data points below a certain value in a dataset.

Regression Toward the Mean

The phenomenon where extreme values in a dataset tend to move closer to the average in subsequent measurements.

Law of Averages

The principle stating that, over time, the average value of a random variable will tend to be the expected value.