How to conduct inferential statistics online: A brief hands-on guide for biomedical researchers

Abstract

Introduction: Research data are first organized and visualized with the help of descriptive statistics. The next step is the inferential statistics. Result of the inferential statistics helps to conclude the finding. Many researchers and medical students may not have access to dedicated software for biostatistics. Aim: This study aimed to provide a guide on the conduct of common inferential statistics that can be done online. Methods: Common inferential statistical tests for both numerical data and categorical data were described in this study. All the tests were conducted online and the process is described step by step with example data. Results: The following tests were described-one-sample t-test, one-sample median test, unpaired t-test, Mann–Whitney U-test, paired t-test, Wilcoxon signed-rank test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), Kruskal–Wallis test, repeated-measure ANOVA, Friedman Test, Pearson correlation test, Spearman correlation test, Binomial test, Chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, and MacNemar test. All these tests could be conducted online from a computer connected to the internet. Conclusion: We could conduct common inferential statistical tests online without any installed software. Anyone without prior data analysis knowledge may conduct the tests with example data on any internet browser. We presume that these would help the medical undergraduate and postgraduate students.