Which of the following best describes the purpose of inferential statistics in an introductory statistics course?

• A. To calculate the exact values of all parameters in a population
• B. To ensure that all data collected is free from any type of error
• C. To organize and summarize data using tables and graphs
• D. To draw conclusions about a population based on data from a sample

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that inferential statistics is about making generalizations or predictions about a larger group (population) based on information collected from a smaller group (sample).
2. Recognize that unlike descriptive statistics, which organizes and summarizes data (e.g., using tables and graphs), inferential statistics uses sample data to estimate population parameters and test hypotheses.
3. Note that inferential statistics does not calculate exact values for all population parameters because it is usually impractical or impossible to collect data from the entire population.
4. Acknowledge that inferential statistics involves methods such as confidence intervals and hypothesis testing to draw conclusions with a certain level of confidence.
5. Therefore, the main purpose of inferential statistics is to draw conclusions about a population based on data from a sample, rather than ensuring data is error-free or summarizing data visually.