Stages of a Statistical Investigation

What this unit covers

Almost every resource here lays out the steps of a statistical investigation, from first question to final conclusion. The mind maps are the heart of the page. Several split the work into planning, collection, organisation, analysis and presentation of results. Others use the investigative cycle: problem, plan, data, analysis, conclusion.

Where to start

Begin with the mind map called Statistical research stages. It opens with Step 1, planning, and explains that you must specify your hypotheses and plan your research before collecting valid data. Then try Stages of a statistical investigation, which goes on to the processing stage and notes that it can be manual, mechanical or computerised.

Next, look at the maps on starting an investigation. They stress that all data collection needs a prior plan, and list items such as the object of the investigation, its purpose and the source of information.

Collecting data

1. Open the Collecting data mind map to compare observational studies, experiments, simulations and surveys.
2. Read the Stats notes on statistical reports, which explain that in observational studies there is no random allocation of subjects into groups beforehand.
3. Use the flashcard deck on chapters 1 and 2 to test yourself on treatment, control, confounders, blinding and randomised grouping.

Using maps, notes and cards together

Read a map first to see the order of the stages. Then turn to the notes for detail and the flashcards for key terms. There is also a quiz, so you can check what has stuck. Many maps repeat the same stages in different words, so comparing two or three is a good way to spot what matters. Teachers can lift a map straight into a lesson.

Where it sits

This unit belongs to the strand Statistical Investigation and Data Collection, within Statistics and probability. Most of the material is aimed at university level, with a small share suited to school students.

Ready to go further? Open a map you like, then sketch your own version of the cycle and see what you can recall.