Question

Step 2 of the five-step process for hypothesis testing is selecting an appropriate method. What is involved in completing this step?

Short answer

Completing step 2 of the hypothesis testing involves determining the appropriate statistical test to use based on factors such as the nature of the data, scale of measurement, sample distribution and size, and the type of analysis.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Hypothesis Testing

The basis for completing this step lies in understanding what hypothesis testing is. Hypothesis testing is a statistical method used in making inferences or predictions about a population based on a sample's data. A hypothesis test evaluates two mutually exclusive statements about a population to determine which statement is best supported by the sample data.

Identifying the Significant Step

The second step in hypothesis testing is selecting an appropriate testing method. Once the problem is identified and the hypothesis is formulated, there must be a decision on the statistical test method that will be used to test the hypothesis. This decision is driven by the type of data and the purpose behind the testing.

Factors Considered in Selecting Testing Method

Some of the factors considered when selecting a testing method include the nature of the data, the scale of measurement, the type of hypothesis, whether your sample data fits a normal distribution, sample size, and whether it's a one-sided or two-sided test.