Dependent samples t-test

Definition

A dependent samples t-test, also known as a paired-samples or repeated measures t-test, is used to determine whether there is a significant difference between the means of two related groups or conditions.

Analogy

Imagine you have a group of students who take a math test before and after attending extra tutoring sessions. You want to know if the tutoring had a significant impact on their scores. To find out, you compare the average scores of each student using a magnifying glass (representing the t-test) to see if there's a noticeable change.

Related terms

Independent samples t-test: This test compares the means of two independent samples from different populations.

Paired data: Data collected in pairs where each observation in one set corresponds uniquely with an observation in another set.

Repeated measures design: A research design where measurements are taken on the same subjects multiple times under different conditions.