"Determine whether the statement is true or false. If it is false, rewrite it as a true statement.
A statistic is a numerical description of a population characteristic."

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definition of a statistic: A statistic is a numerical description of a sample characteristic, not a population characteristic. A population characteristic is described by a parameter.
2. Compare the given statement to the correct definition: The statement claims that a statistic describes a population characteristic, which contradicts the definition.
3. Determine the truth value of the statement: Based on the definition, the statement is false.
4. Rewrite the statement to make it true: 'A statistic is a numerical description of a sample characteristic.'
5. Review the distinction between a statistic and a parameter: A parameter describes a population characteristic, while a statistic describes a sample characteristic.

Key Concepts

Statistics vs. Parameter

In statistics, a 'statistic' refers to a numerical value that describes a sample, while a 'parameter' is a numerical value that describes a whole population. The statement in question incorrectly defines a statistic as a description of a population characteristic, which is actually the role of a parameter.

Population and Sample

A population encompasses all members of a defined group, while a sample is a subset of that population selected for analysis. Understanding the distinction is crucial because statistics are often used to infer characteristics about a population based on sample data.

Descriptive vs. Inferential Statistics

Descriptive statistics summarize and describe the features of a dataset, while inferential statistics use sample data to make generalizations about a population. The statement's focus on a population characteristic aligns more with inferential statistics, which rely on parameters rather than statistics.