Assumption

Definition

An assumption is a condition that is accepted as true without proof, forming the basis for further reasoning and analysis. In statistics, assumptions are crucial for the validity of hypothesis tests.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Assumptions are necessary to derive valid statistical inferences from sample data.
2. Common assumptions include normality, independence, and equal variances among groups.
3. Violating assumptions can lead to incorrect conclusions and invalid test results.
4. Statistical tests like the Shapiro-Wilk test can be used to check for normality.
5. Knowing when an assumption holds or fails helps in choosing appropriate statistical methods.

Review Questions

• What are common assumptions made in hypothesis testing?
• How does violating an assumption affect the outcome of a statistical test?
• Which tests can be used to verify the normality assumption?

Related terms

Hypothesis: A statement that can be tested statistically, often about a population parameter.

p-value: The probability of obtaining a result at least as extreme as the observed data, assuming the null hypothesis is true.

Null Hypothesis: The default statement that there is no effect or difference, typically denoted as $H_0$.