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DBA Research Guide: Statistics

Statistics

Statistics can help provide concrete examples of a larger trend, give the basis for an important chart or graph, or make theoretical arguments tangible.

There are two main branches of statistics:

  • Descriptive: concerns the numerical or quantitative data alone, and can help draw conclusions about a sample, rather than a population.
  • Inferential: concerns the conclusions drawn about an entire population which are inferred from the results of a random sampling of a population.

Be aware of bias in statistics! Numbers can be manipulated, and charts and graphs can be arranged to give a certain impression. Always double-check your facts!

In ProQuest databases, the Advanced Search screen includes a Document type limit. Select Statistics/Data Report to search for statistics.

Screenshot of ProQuest database advanced search page. The "Statistics/Data Report" option under "Document type" is circled.

This limit is available in the following databases:

Useful Links for SPSS

SPSS Tutorials