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Summarizing Data

In: Converting Data into Evidence

Author

Listed:
  • Alfred DeMaris

    (Bowling Green State University)

  • Steven H. Selman

    (University of Toledo, Department of Urology)

Abstract

In this chapter we discuss how to use descriptive statistical techniques, or techniques employed for data description, for summarizing the sample distribution of a variable. Interest will primarily revolve around two tasks. The first is finding the center of the distribution, which tells us what the typical or average score in the distribution is. The most commonly employed measure of center is the arithmetic average, or mean, of the distribution. The second task is assessing the dispersion, or degree of spread of the values, in the distribution. This indicates how much variability there is in the values of the variable of interest. Additionally, we will learn about percentiles and another important measure of center: the median. Finally, we expand the discussion to considering the characteristics of the population distribution on a variable. But first we must distinguish between quantitative vs. qualitative variables.

Suggested Citation

  • Alfred DeMaris & Steven H. Selman, 2013. "Summarizing Data," Springer Books, in: Converting Data into Evidence, edition 127, chapter 0, pages 9-22, Springer.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:sprchp:978-1-4614-7792-1_2
    DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4614-7792-1_2
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