Page 22 - Statistics II for Dummies

6 Statistics II For Dummies

When you see this icon, it means I’m explaining how to carry out that particu-
lar data analysis using Minitab. I also explain the information you get in the
computer output so you can interpret your results.

I use this icon to reinforce certain ideas that are critical for success in Stats II,
such as things I think are important to review as you prepare for an exam.

When you see this icon, you can skip over the information if you don’t want to
get into the nitty-gritty details. They exist mainly for people who have a spe-
cial interest or obligation to know more about the more technical aspects of
certain statistical issues.

This icon points to helpful hints, ideas, or shortcuts that you can use to save
time; it also includes alternative ways to think about a particular concept.

I use warning icons to help you stay away from common misconceptions and
pitfalls you may face when dealing with ideas and techniques related to Stats II.

Where to Go from Here

This book is written in a nonlinear way, so you can start anywhere and still
understand what’s happening. However, I can make some recommendations
if you want some direction on where to start.

If you’re thoroughly familiar with the ideas of hypothesis testing and simple
linear regression, start with Chapter 5 (multiple regression). Use Chapter 1 if
you need a reference for the jargon that statisticians use in Stats II.

If you’ve covered all topics up through the various types of regression
(simple, multiple, nonlinear, and logistic) or a subset of those as your
professor deemed important, proceed to Chapter 9, the basics of analysis of
variance (ANOVA).

Chapter 14 is the place to begin if you want to tackle categorical (qualitative)
variables before hitting the quantitative stuff. You can work with the Chi-square
test there.

Nonparametric statistics are presented starting with Chapter 16. This area is
a hot topic in today’s statistics courses, yet it’s also one that doesn’t seem
to get as much space in textbooks as it should. Start here if you want the full
details on the most common nonparametric procedures.

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