Why Study Statistics?

Study Statistics?

As early as in the Old Testament, statistical methods occur particularly censuses of population and wealth were taken by the Pharaohs and the ancient Hebrews long before Christ was born. With the turn of 20^th century, the term came to be applied to a study of scientific methods of dealing with quantitative data with applications to practically all fields of study.

There are reasons why the scope of statistics and the need to study statistics have grown enormously in the last few decades.

First, Knowledge of basic statistics is essential for people going into research in various fields of human endeavor.

Second, numerical information is everywhere. 

Third, statistical techniques are used to make decisions that affect our daily lives.

Fourth, a person with an understanding of statistics is between able to decide whether his or her professional colleagues use their statistics to illuminate or merely to support their personal biases; that is, it helps one to decide whether the claims are valid or not.

Fifth, knowledge of statistics is essential for persons who wish to keep their education up-to-date.

Finally, an understanding of statistics can help anyone discriminate between facts and fancy in everyday life – in reading newspapers and watching television, and in making daily comparison and evaluations.

Generally, no matter what your future line of work, you will make decisions that involve data. That is, an understanding of statistical methods will help you make decisions more effectively.