How to conduct inferential statistics online (Part 2): A brief hands-on guide for biomedical researchers

Abstract

Introduction: Researchers from developing countries may not have access to statistical software packages. However, descriptive and inferential statistical tests are to conduct to conclude the study. In a previous article (DOI: 10.4103/ijves.ijves_116_21), we described how to conduct some of the common inferential statistical tests online. This article is the second part of the series. Aim: We aimed to provide the examples of some inferential statistical tests used in clinical studies and provide step-by-step guidelines to conduct those tests online. Methods: We prepared a set of data for each statistical test. These data were used to carry out the test online and the steps are briefly described. The result of the test is presented with screenshots and text to get an idea of how to report the result in a manuscript. Results: We described the process of conduct of the following tests online – Receiver operating characteristics curve analysis, Kaplan − Meier estimate, dose-response, logistic regression, multiple linear regression, residual analysis, odd ratio, Bland − Altman plot, Cronbach's alpha, Cohen's kappa, and intraclass correlation coefficient. In addition, a method for random allocation of subjects in groups was also described. All the tests were described with example data available in a supplementary file. Conclusion: In this article, some of the inferential statistics used for clinical studies are described with example data and a step-by-step guide. Any clinician from resource-limited settings may use this guide as a reference for statistical tests. However, the tests described in this article are not a comprehensive list.