Which of the following best describes the primary purpose of statistics in research?

• A. To collect, analyze, interpret, and present data in order to make informed decisions
• B. To memorize mathematical formulas for use in all scientific fields
• C. To eliminate the need for data collection in scientific studies
• D. To ensure that all experiments produce the same results every time

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that statistics is a branch of mathematics focused on working with data, especially in research contexts.
2. Recognize that the primary purpose of statistics is to help researchers handle data effectively by collecting, organizing, analyzing, interpreting, and presenting it.
3. Note that memorizing formulas alone is not the main goal; rather, applying statistical methods to real data is key.
4. Acknowledge that statistics does not eliminate the need for data collection; instead, it relies on data to draw meaningful conclusions.
5. Realize that statistics helps make informed decisions based on data, rather than guaranteeing identical results in every experiment, which is often impossible due to natural variability.