Question 1

Which of the following best describes the main purpose of statistics as a science?

Accepted Answer

To plan studies and experiments, obtain data, and organize, summarize, present, analyze, and interpret those data to draw conclusions.

Question 2

A researcher wants to know the average height of all university students. She measures the heights of 200 randomly selected students. In this context, what is the population?

Accepted Answer

All university students.

Question 3

Which of the following is an example of a voluntary response sample?

Accepted Answer

A survey where people can choose to call in and express their opinion on a radio show.

Question 4

Why is a voluntary response sample generally considered to be a poor method for making inferences about a population?

Accepted Answer

Because it is likely to be biased, as those who choose to respond may not represent the population.

Question 5

In the context of statistical studies, what is the difference between statistical significance and practical significance?

Accepted Answer

Statistical significance means the results are unlikely to occur by chance, while practical significance means the results are large enough to be meaningful in practice.

Question 6

A weight loss program reports an average loss of $$2.1\ \mathrm{kg}$$ after one year, with $$p \u003c 0.05. $$Which of the following statements is most accurate?

Accepted Answer

The result is statistically significant but may not be practically significant.

Question 7

Which of the following is a potential pitfall when analyzing survey data?

Accepted Answer

Reporting sample data instead of measuring it directly.

Question 8

A survey asks, 'Do you really intend to vote for that candidate?' What type of survey bias does this question illustrate?

Accepted Answer

Loaded question bias.

Question 9

A television show asks viewers to call in and vote on an issue. 186,000 people respond, and 67% support a particular position. A separate random sample of 500 people shows only 38% support. Which sample is more reliable and why?

Accepted Answer

The 500 responses are more reliable because they were randomly selected, reducing bias.

Question 10

Which of the following best describes a census in statistics?

Accepted Answer

The collection of data from every member of a population.

Question 11

A researcher wants to estimate the relationship between shoe print length and height in males. She randomly selects 8 males and measures both variables. Which step of the statistical process does this best illustrate?

Accepted Answer

Prepare

Question 12

Which of the following is NOT a recommended step in the process of conducting a statistical study?

Accepted Answer

Ignore the source of the data

Question 13

A survey about a new product is sent to 1,000 people, but only 100 respond. What is the main concern with the results?

Accepted Answer

There is a high risk of nonresponse bias.

Question 14

Which of the following statements about percentages is correct?

Accepted Answer

Percentages should not exceed 100% of a quantity unless justified by context.

Question 15

Which of the following best describes 'data' in statistics?

Accepted Answer

Collections of observations, such as measurements, genders, or survey responses.

Question 16

A study finds that a new medication reduces blood pressure by $$1.5\ \mathrm{mmHg} on $$average, with $$p = 0.01. $$Which of the following is the best interpretation?

Accepted Answer

The result is statistically significant, but may not be practically significant.

Question 17

Which of the following is an example of a misleading conclusion in statistics?

Accepted Answer

Making statements that are unclear or use technical jargon unfamiliar to most people.

Question 18

Why is it important to consider both the context and the source of data in a statistical study?

Accepted Answer

Because the context and source help assess the reliability and potential bias in the data.

Introduction to Statistics: Key Concepts and Critical Thinking

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards