Can't tell your facts from your figures?

A brief excerpt from Head First Statistics by Dawn Griffiths, now available in bookstores and online.

Statistics help you make sense of confusing sets of data. They make the complex simple. And when you've found out what's really going on, you need a way of visualizing it and telling everyone else. So if you want to pick the best chart for the job, grab your coat, pack your best slide rule, and join us on a ride to Statsville.

Statistics are everywhere

Everywhere you look you can find statistics, whether you're browsing the Internet, playing sports, or looking through the top scores of your favorite video game. But what actually is a statistic?

Statistics are numbers that summarize raw facts and figures in some meaningful way. They present key ideas that may not be immediately apparent by just looking at the raw data, and by data, we mean facts or figures from which we can draw conclusions. As an example, you don't have to wade through lots of football scores when all you want to know is the league position of your favorite team. You need a statistic to quickly give you the information you need.

The study of statistics covers where statistics come from, how to calculate them, and how you can use them effectively.

But why learn statistics?

Understanding what's really going on with statistics empowers you. If you really get statistics, you'll be able to make objective decisions, make accurate predictions that seem inspired, and convey the message you want in the most effective way possible.

Statistics can be a convenient way of summarizing key truths about data, but there's a dark side too.

Statistics are based on facts, but even so, they can sometimes be misleading. They can be used to tell the truth—or to lie. The problem is how do you know when you're being told the truth, and when you're being told lies? Having a good understanding of statistics puts you in a strong position. You're much better equipped to tell when statistics are inaccurate or misleading. In other words, studying statistics is a good way of making sure you don't get fooled.

Learn more about the good and evil sides of Statistics in Head First Statistics, now available!