AP PSYCHOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Definition: Inferential statistics is a statistical method that deduces from a small but representative sample the characteristics of a bigger population. In other words, it allows the researcher to make assumptions about a wider group, using a smaller portion of that group as a guideline.

Detailed explanation-2: -The most common methodologies in inferential statistics are hypothesis tests, confidence intervals, and regression analysis. Interestingly, these inferential methods can produce similar summary values as descriptive statistics, such as the mean and standard deviation.

Detailed explanation-3: -Inferential statistics are based on the assumption that sampling is random. We trust a random sample to represent different segments of society in close to the appropriate proportions (provided the sample is large enough; see below).

Detailed explanation-4: -There are three main types of Inferential Statistics: hypothesis testing, confidence intervals, and regression analysis. With Inferential Statistics, you can predict the outcome for a large dataset without the need for gathering data from the whole population.

Detailed explanation-5: -Statistical inference is a method of making decisions about the parameters of a population, based on random sampling. It helps to assess the relationship between the dependent and independent variables. The purpose of statistical inference to estimate the uncertainty or sample to sample variation.