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Branch of mathematics concerned with collection, classification, analysis, and interpretation of numerical facts, for drawing inferences on the

basis of their quantifiable likelihood (probability). Statistics can interpret aggregates of data too large to be intelligible by ordinary observation because such data (unlike individual quantities) tend to behave in regular, predictable manner. It is subdivided into descriptive statistics and inferential statistics.

(1) The kings and rulers in the ancient times were interested in their manpower. They conducted census of population to get information about their population. They used information to calculate their strength and ability for wars. In those days statistics was defined as the science of kings, political and science of statecraft (2) A.L. Bowley defined statistics as statistics is the science of counting This definition places the entries stress on counting only. A common man also thinks as if statistics is nothing but counting. This used to be the situation but very long time ago. Statistics today is not mere counting of people, counting of animals, counting of trees and counting of fighting force. It has now grown to a rich methods of data analysis and interpretation. (3) A.L. Bowley has also defined as science of averages This definition is very simple but it covers only some area of statistics. Average is very simple important in statistics. Experts are interested in average deaths rates, average birth rates, average increase in population, and average increase in per capita income, average increase in standard of living and cost of living, average development rate, average inflation rate, average production of rice per acre, average literacy rate and many other averages of different fields of practical life. But statistics is not limited to average only. There are many other statistical tools like measure of variation, measure of correlation, measures of independence etc Thus this definition is weak and incomplete and has been buried in the past.

statistics are the numerical statement of facts capable of analysis and interpretation and the science of statistics is the study of the principles and the methods applied in collecting, presenting, analysis and interpreting the numerical data in any field of inquiry.

2 TYPES OF STATISTICS
Descriptive Statistics consists of

methods for organizing, displaying and describing data by using tables, graphs, and summary measures. Inferential Statistics is a process of describing the population based on the sample results.

Population: The complete set of elements to be studied. Sample: A subset of the population.

There are two main types of different forms of statistics: -Descriptive statistics. -Inferential statistics (Inductive statistics). These can also be referred to as quantitative and qualitative statistics. Descriptive statistics aim to describe the prominent features within a collection of data quantitatively. It summarizes a collection of data as a description rather than using the data to learn about the field in which the data represents. Generally, descriptive statistics are always used, even when the main conclusions from the data's analysis are gained by use of inferential statistics. For example, the sports sections of newspapers tend to give statistics on the performance of many players such as the amount of goals scored compared with the amount of goal attempts. This is a descriptive statistic as it summarizes the data in a quantitative manner. Inferential statistics is the given title of a process of gaining knowledge from a set of data that are subject to random change or variation. Such data sets would render a descriptive statistic meaningless as the data changes in an unpredictable way. Therefore no knowledge would be gained about the subject that the data represents. The outcome to such a statistical method may be a prediction that can then be used to ensure practical action to be taken. For example, it may have influence when making managerial decisions that affect the future within a business.

Applications of Statistics
I. Importance and Benefits Statistics provides simple yet instant information on the matter it centers on. Statistical methods are useful tools in aiding researches and studies in different fields such as economics, social sciences, business, medicine and many others. Provides a vivid presentation of collected and organized data through the use of figures, charts, diagrams and graphs. Helps provide more critical analyses of information. II. Examples Statistics in School
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May be used to see how the students are performing collectively in their studies.
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Gives information about the schools population change.


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Helps in processing certain evaluations and surveys given to help improve the schools system.
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Determine the relationship of educational performance to other factors such as socioeconomic background. Statistics in Social Science
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Helps in providing the government more information about its citizens.


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Statistical results may initiate social reforms that would help benefit the standard of living.
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Aids in knowing which problems or matters are there to prioritize and give much attention to. Statistics in Sports
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Gives a vivid summary of the events in a game with the help of well-tabulated scores and other parameters. Statistics in Science
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Endangered species of different wildlife could be protected through regulations and laws developed using statistics.
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Epidemics and diseases are monitored with the aid of statistics.


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Helps in the evaluation of certain medical practices and the effectiveness of drugs.

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