Statistics decrypted-a comprehensive review and smartphone-assisted five-step approach for good statistical practice.
Langenbecks Arch Surg 2021;
407:529-540. [PMID:
34750673 PMCID:
PMC8933355 DOI:
10.1007/s00423-021-02360-0]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Background
Statistic scripts are often made by mathematicians and cryptic for clinicians or non-mathematician scientists. Nevertheless, almost all research projects necessitate the application of some statistical tests or at least an understanding thereof. The present review aims on giving an overview of the most common statistical terms and concepts. It further ensures good statistical practice by providing a five-step approach guiding the reader to the correct statistical test.
Methods and results
First, different types of variables and measurements to describe a data set with means of descriptive statistics are introduced. The basic thoughts and tools of interferential statistics are presented, and different types of bias are discussed. Then in the final paragraph, the most commonly used statistical tests are described. A smartphone app accessible via QR code finally guides the reader in five steps to the correct statistical test, depending on the data used in order to avoid commonly performed mistakes.
Conclusions
The five-step approach sets a new minimal standard for good statistical practice.
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