When should a researcher decide which statistical method to use to analyze their data (assuming there is more than one statistical method available)?
A)Before collecting the data.
B)Once the data have been collected and summarized and the researcher can see what direction the results may take, then he/she needs to choose an analysis.
C)Once the data have been collected, the researcher should try different analyses and select the one that gives them the most desirable results.
D)None of the above.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Choosing the statistical method before collecting data ensures the research design is appropriate for the research questions or hypotheses, and helps in planning how to collect the data in a way that is suitable for the chosen analysis.

When Should a Researcher Decide Which Statistical Method to Use