Descriptive and Inferential Statistical Methods

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Problem Solving – Data Analysis
1 Explain the difference between descriptive and inferential statistical methods and give an example of how each could help you conclude in the real world.
The term statistic refers to the numerical depiction of data that has been subjected to well-established mathematical science. There are two types of statistics extensively used: descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. Descriptive statistics aggregate numerical data and establish a characteristic of a specific population where the data is acquired; it also illustrates population descriptions in terms of parameters such as central measures of tendency, spread, or variability. On the other hand, inferential statistics are used to take a sample from a specific population and use it as the foundation for making an inference about that group of participants; it also uses these characteristics to draw correlations between variables or differences across populations/groups.
For example, suppose a manager wants to investigate the differences in performance between men and women in their company. Descriptive statistics will relay the mean and variance/spread in scores in each group, whereas inferential statistics will use the time to conduct research or put both genders to the test to conclude.
2 You would like to determine whether eating before bed influences sleep patterns. List each step you would take to conduct a statistical study on this topic and explain what you would do to complete each step. Then, answer the questions below. What is your hypothesis on this issue? What type of data will you be looking for? What methods would you use to gather information? How would the results of the data influence decisions you might make about eating and sleeping?
Hypothesis
Null: Eating before bed does not influence sleep patterns
Alternative: Eating before bed influences sleep patterns.
In this case, the data gathered is mainly quantitative since research requires enough participants to be completed. Also, the studies and responses may change from person to person because some individuals do not go to sleep immediately after eating, others remain up for an hour before going to sleep, and some go to sleep immediately after eating. The participants in this study must be divided into two groups: those who sleep immediately after sleeping and those who stay awake for at least an hour before sleeping. Using these, the researcher may establish whether there is a substantial relationship between the two variables.
The findings of this study may be helpful to persons who are having trouble sleeping; their eating habits may or may not be the source of t...