Frequently Asked Questions: Research
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Q: What is tau?
Q: Why are statistics important in research?
Answer:
Scientists use statistics analyse data and tell us if differences between datasets are 'significantly different' or just occurred by chance.
For example, when testing a new drug, we need to know if the apparent improvements seen in people taking the drug are big enough for the drug to be accepted as effective. By choosing the correct statistical test, the researchers will produce a 'P value' that tells them the 'significance' of their data. If the drug shows a significantly different effect from a placebo then we know that the drug is having an effect.
This is essential for ensuring that the outcome of research is properly analysed and the results are fully understood.
