What is Statistics?

Statistics is the term used in mathematics to describe the study numerical data collection, organization, and interpretation. Regardless of the group size, statistics requires analytical and inference skills to draw accurate conclusions about the quantitative and observed data. Due to the complexity of looking at data with many variables, characteristics, or traits specific to an item, statisticians rely on differential and integral calculus, linear algebra, and probability theory.

Descriptive and inferential statistics are the two major areas used to study and analyze the properties of the sample and quantitative or qualitative data population. These properties are then used to test hypotheses, analyze variables, interpret outcomes, and draw conclusions. Statistics rely on multiple levels of measurement to quantify the results. Once collected and analyzed, data can be presented in various ways, including bar graphs, pie charts, line graphs, pictographs, histograms, and frequency distribution charts.

Statistics are used in a wide variety of professions and career fields, as well as in everyday life. Statistics are applied whenever data is collected, organized, and interpreted. The information provided through the use of statistics gives insight into how and why things work. Using statistics in the way of research, evaluation, and analysis of outcomes helps everyone, from government and investment agencies to weather forecasters to geologists, make sound decisions.

As with all forms of mathematics, statistics is complex and relies on knowing and understanding various other skills. These skills include the principles of probability and the testing of hypotheses, reiterating that having a strong foundation in mathematical practices will further develop a deeper understanding of statistics.

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Statistics Topics

Data collection

Learn the definition of data collection. Explore the different types of data collection methods and discover the tools used in the collection of data in statistics.

Descriptive statistics

What is Descriptive Statistics? Learn about the descriptive statistics definition and its purpose. See the descriptive statistics examples and its types.

Probability theory

Learn the essential probability rules, formulas, and notation. See how symbolic probability translates into words and how concepts are notated with symbols. Get examples of probability rules, formulas, and uses, including conditional probabilities.

Statistical hypothesis testing

Learn the hypothesis testing definition and how to conduct a test using the hypothesis testing steps. Explore hypothesis testing examples for better understanding.

Mathematical Statistics Resources

There is a multitude of resources that address the complex and involved components of statistical mathematics. The courses offered through Study.com make the content accessible to all learners through digestible chunks of information. Each course meets the goals of different learners with short, self-paced videos, relevant and applicable assignments, and access to tutoring for personalized support.

Courses for Probability and Statistics

Statistic courses at Study.com introduce and establish a solid understanding of the principles of statistics and business statistics. This includes delving into the descriptive and inferential, quantitative data, categorical data, probability in statistics, as well as the purpose of statistical models. These courses are full of applicable content taught by experts who work to make the complex concepts of statistical methods and analysis understandable for all learners.

Statistics 101: Principles of Statistics

This course addresses topics like the difference between various data types, basic theory to answer probability questions, and how to test hypotheses. The self-paced course provides learners with short videos accompanied by quizzes to check for understanding.
Business 212: Business Statistics

With the goal of preparing learners for careers in business statistics, this course focuses on applicable skills like applying business decision making, how to perform linear regression analysis, and how to develop and use multiple regression analysis.

Statistics Test Prep for Teachers and Students

Statistics Test Prep

Study.com offers several test preparation courses and study guides to help test-takers prepare for math exams, including statistics and probability. Those who are applying to college or hoping to earn college credit via tests, as well as those who are planning to become teachers, can use these review courses to brush up on important math skills. For example, the CLEP College Mathematics course covers basic math, measurement, inequalities, types of numbers, functions, exponents, math logic, data analysis, probability, and geometry. Other courses review more advanced math concepts. These courses are designed to be user-friendly and help test-takers be well-prepared for their exams.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What kind of math is statistics?

    Statistics is a type of math that requires collecting, observing, and analyzing results. This kind of mathematics uses quantitative or qualitative data and relies on several other forms of math, including differential calculus, linear algebra, and probability theory.

  • What are examples of statistics?

    Examples of statistics can be found in finance, business, and daily life. Data collection and analysis are used in weather forecasting, medical studies, batting averages for baseball players, and even travel and tourism.