Statistical vs. Non-Statistical Questions

Statistical questions are queries that anticipate variability in the data and account for it. The statistical problem-solving process has three main components which are formulating statistical inquiries, collecting and analyzing data, and then interpreting the findings.

In case you are looking for help to develop a statistical question, our experts formulate a statistical inquiry to provide a framework that guides your research procedure. Constructing the statistical question defines the population under study, the variables to be measured, and the variation that may occur during the measurement of that characteristic.

In this post, we give a comprehensive guide to what is a statistical question and what makes a good one, distinguish statistical and non-statistical questions, and give examples for both.

What is a Statistical Question?

A statistical question is an inquiry that anticipates variability in the data that would be collected to answer the query. Two primary data types are used to answer these questions: Categorical and numerical.

Numerical data consists of numbers that can be computed with multiple standard operators such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Examples are height, minutes, and prices. Categorical data stores information into groups or categories using labels. Examples are eye color, gender, race, and place of residence.

What Makes a Good Statistical Question?

Two key features make up a good statistical question: 1.) The presence of variability in the data. 2.) The requirement that it can be answered using the data.

An exceptional statistical question is based on a specific population of interest, has a measurement of interest, and expects a variation in the answers. Take, for instance, the question, “ Is there a relationship between being vegetarian and the contraction of certain health complications?” This inquiry has a measurement of interest but lacks variability because there is one subject.

A better alternative that fits all the characteristics of an exceptional statistical question would be: “ Is there a relationship between various dietary preferences and the contraction of certain health complications?”

Statistical Question Examples

1. What are the key predictors of stock market fluctuation over the last 10 years?
2. How do multiple factors (motivation, training, leadership) collectively influence employee productivity in a corporate workplace?
3. Does differing dosages of medication significantly affect the recovery period in diabetes patients?
4. What are the factors that influence customer preferences when purchasing eco-friendly products?
5. What factors positively impact employee turnover rates of hourly workers?

What is a Non-Statistical Question?

A non-statistical question has an answer with no variability. There is only one fixed answer for this type of inquiry, and it does not necessitate data collection. Non-statistical questions do not use any statistical methods or software to answer them.

Statistical vs Non-Statistical Questions

The table below entails detailed differences between statistical and non-statistical questions.

Non-Statistical Question Examples

1. What is the process of the curriculum committee in making choices about courses?
2. How will establishing a community advisory committee influence giving by the senior citizens?
3. What are the roles of store managers in ensuring employee satisfaction?
4. What was the economic impact of Hurricane Katrina on Louisiana and Mississippi?
5. How did the Cold War affect the meaning of American freedom?

Summary

A statistical question anticipates variability and accounts for it. Formulating statistical inquiries defines the population under research, the variables being measured, and the variation that may occur during the study. Statistical questions are addressed using two types of data: Categorical and numerical. Conversely, a non-statistical question has a specific answer with no variability.

Having understood the difference between statistical and non-statistical questions, reach out to our services today for expert guidance on formulating statistical questions. We can also help you formulate statistical questions based on the problem you aim to address. Join our live chat and talk to our competent and sociable customer service team, who respond to all your questions promptly. Contact us any time as we are available 24/7 to ensure we serve you at any time of your convenience.