Home > Statistics Every Writer Should Know
Numbers can't "talk," but they can tell you as much as your human sources can. But just like with human sources, you have to ask!
So what should you ask a number? Well, mathematicians have developed an entire field - statistics - dedicated to getting answers out of numbers. Now, you don't have to have a degree in statistics in order to conduct an effective "interview" with your data. But you do need to know a few basics.
Here, described in plain English, are some basic concepts in statistics that every writer should know...
- So, You're a Beginner?
- Mean
Let's get started...
- Median
How to find out how the "average Joe" is doing
- Percent
Ch-ch-ch-changes...
- The Next Step: Not Getting Duped
- Per capita and Rates
When an increase is really a decrease and other ways people can use numbers to trick you
- Standard Deviation and Normal Distribution
A quick look at the King of Stats
- Margin of Error and Confidence Interval
How not to get suckered by polls and other research
- Data Analysis
How to tell if these numbers are really worth writing about anyway
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Sample Sizes
"So how come a survey of 1,600 people can tell me what 250 million are thinking?"
- Finding Data on the Internet
"So where can I find the inflation rate, crime statistics, and other data?"
- Statistical Tests
"How do I pick the correct statistical test for me?"
- Getting Help...
- The Stats Board
Post your question about statistics, or help someone else by posting an answer to his or her question.
- The Bookstore
For those of you who would like to learn more about statistics and journalism, the author has recommended several books for additional reading.
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