Q1: What is inferential statistics?
Ans: Inferential statistics involve drawing conclusions about a larger population from information obtained from a sample. They use probability-based methods to estimate population parameters, test hypotheses and make predictions. For example, using a sample survey to estimate the average household income of a city is an application of inferential statistics.
Q2: Define statistics as a singular noun.
Ans: In the singular form, statistics refers to the science and methods concerned with the collection, organisation, presentation, analysis and interpretation of quantitative data for decision-making and research purposes.
Q3: Define statistics.
Ans: Statistics is the study and practice of collecting, presenting, classifying, analysing and interpreting numerical data. It includes both descriptive statistics (summarising data) and inferential statistics (drawing conclusions from samples about populations).
Q4: What are the two components of the subject matter in statistics?
Ans: The two components are:
- Descriptive statistics: Methods for organising, summarising and presenting data (for example, tables, graphs and averages).
- Inferential statistics: Methods for making predictions or decisions about a population based on sample data, using probability concepts.
Q5: What are the three components of economics?
Ans: The three main components of economics are:
- Consumption: Use of goods and services to satisfy human wants.
- Production: Creation of goods and services using resources and technology.
- Distribution: How goods, services and income are shared among members of society.
Q6: Define statistics as a plural noun.
Ans: As a plural noun, statistics refers to numerical facts or figures such as employment statistics, population figures or public expenditure data. In this use, it denotes actual numbers or datasets rather than the science.
Q7: What is descriptive statistics?
Ans: Descriptive statistics comprise methods for collecting, organising, presenting and analysing data so that it becomes understandable. They include measures of central tendency (mean, median, mode), measures of dispersion (range, variance, standard deviation), correlation and graphical displays such as histograms and pie charts.
Q8: What are the scopes of statistics?
Ans: The scope of statistics covers:
- Understanding the nature and subject matter of statistical inquiry;
- Methods of data collection (census and sampling) and data organisation;
- Techniques for data presentation and analysis;
- Applications in planning, policy-making, business, economics and research;
- Recognition of limitations such as data quality issues, sampling errors and possible misuse of statistical results.
Q9: What are the stages of statistical study?
Ans: The stages of a statistical study are:
- Data collection: Gathering raw data by census or sampling;
- Data organisation: Classifying and arranging data into a usable form;
- Data presentation: Showing data through tables, charts and diagrams;
- Data analysis: Applying measures and techniques to summarise and examine relationships;
- Interpretation: Drawing conclusions and making inferences for decision-making.
Q10: What are the tools used, related to statistical study?
Ans: Tools used in statistical study include:
- Methods of data collection: census and sample techniques;
- Recording aids: tally bars and checklists;
- Presentation tools: tables, graphs and diagrams (bar charts, histograms, pie charts);
- Analytical measures: averages (mean, median, mode), percentages, measures of dispersion, regression coefficients and correlation for studying relationships between variables.
