Statistics

"Statistics is the science concerned with developing and studying methods for collecting, analyzing, interpreting and presenting empirical [observable] data." --"What is Statistics?" UCI web site. Academic majors such as business, social sciences, and nursing require the use of statistics.

• In general, search using one or two nouns, combined by AND or OR.
• Do more than one search, using different words that cover the same concept.
• If you find too much information, take out a word. If you don't find enough, add one.
• Use an asterisk (*) to search for variations on a word. For example, searching for student* will bring up records on student and students.
• For more information, see Develop a topic

These are only a few examples of critical thinking-related terms found in the library catalog but you can also use these terms in a database. When searching articles, which are shorter and more numerous, use more specific words or more search terms.

• Commercial statistics (as a subject, which means the book is mainly about this)
• Statistics (as a subject)
• Your topic AND statistics

In general, add the search term "statistics" to your search.

Academic Search

In the new "UI" or user interface, go to Advanced Search. Below "add fields" there is a search field for Publications or Subjects. In the search field, add Statistics.

JSTOR

Do a search. On the left-hand side, there are ways to refine results. Under Subject, there is a search feature. Search for statistics, and choose what pops up. The articles should contain statistics.

Opposing Viewpoints

Do a search, then look in the upper page where it divides into Featured Viewpoints, Academic Journals, News, Magazines, etc. If there are charts or tables, there will be a statistics category.

As of 11/5/2024. Databases may change their interface or how you interact with them, but the principles remain the same.

When searching the web, you might want to look for governmental sites. If so, you can search for:

[your topic] statistics site:gov

Issues to consider:

• Consider the reliability. Who collected the statistics and what is their authority? Is it from a government source or reddit?
• Check for bias. Is there any underlying agenda? Is a tobacco company trying to tell you smoking is healthy?
• Check for accuracy. Can it be verified?
• Consider the sample size.
• Consider the context. Are the statistics being taken out of context? Do the stats "prove" a shop is popular because it's always crowded on Saturdays (what about the rest of the week)?
• Consider the methodology. Can you find one? Is so, did they consider all the aspects they should have? Did they ensure the results would be as bias-free as possible?