Focus on Statistical InferenceThe main theme of this text is statistical inference and decision making through the interpretation of numerical results. The process of statistical inference is introduced in a variety of applications and statistical settings all using a similar, carefully delineated, four-step approach: Claim, Experiment, Likelihood, and Conclusion.
Chapter Challenge
Each chapter opens with a unique
Chapter Challenge case study, providing interesting applications to begin a class discussion. The case study is revisited and the solution explained at the end of each chapter in the
Chapter Challenge Wrap-Up.
Review and Preview
At the beginning of each chapter, the
Review box includes reminders of specific concepts from earlier chapters that will be used to develop new skills. The
Preview box lists the learning objectives for the chapter.
Solution Trail
The
Solution Trail, a technique and visual aid for solving problems, appears in the text margins alongside selected examples. This feature, highly praised by reviewers, serves as a unique guide for approaching and solving the problems before moving to the solution steps within the example.
Step-by-Step Solutions
The solutions to selected examples are presented in logical, systematic steps. This approach helps guide the reader through necessary calculations in order to find a solution and interpret results.
Technology Solutions
Wherever possible, a technology solution using the TI-84 Plus, Minitab, or Excel is presented at the end of each text example. Screen illustrations are color coded to allow for easy association with hand calculations shown in examples.
Illuminating the Concepts
These numbered lists offer straightforward explanations of various definitions and concepts. The itemized specifics, including hints, tips, and reminders, make it easier for the reader to comprehend and learn important statistical ideas.
Theory Symbols
More advanced material is offset with blue, half-moon symbols. This material can be skipped by the typical reader, but provides more complete explanations of various topics.
How-To Boxes
This feature provides clear steps for constructing basic graphs or performing essential calculations.
How To boxes are color coded and easy to locate within each chapter.
Definition/Formula Boxes
Definitions and formulas are highlighted for emphasis and easy reference.
Technology Corner
This feature, at the end of most sections, presents step-by-step instructions for using the TI-84 Plus, Minitab, and Excel to solve the examples presented in that section. Keystrokes, menu items, specific functions, and screen illustrations are presented. Additional statistical software user manuals are available on the text Online Study Center and StatsPortal.
Data Sets
All data sets presented in the examples and exercises are included on the Introductory
Statistics: A Problem-Solving Approach CD and Book Companion Site (
www.whfreeman.com/introstats). The data are stored in an Excel workbook. Each worksheet is labeled and corresponds to the appropriate chapter. The first row of each worksheet names the exercise number and specific item or variable.