Probability and inferential statistics

Abstract

Application of statistical tools is essential for appropriate understanding of the collected data in clinical trials. The types of variables for the study are also decided in advance and the relevant statistical tools identified in the planning stage of the study. The tests applied also depend on the distribution of data and hence this assessment needs to be done before application of a particular statistical tool. The variables are summarised to better understand the large pool of collected data, done using descriptive statistics. To compare this summarised data across different study groups, inferential statistics are required. Inferential statistics provide the significance of differences (e.g., P value and confidence intervals) helping the researchers and readers to confirm the differences among the groups. Strong methodology and clinical knowledge of the chosen research question should form the background for statistical analysis. We provide a brief review of the basic statistical tools, including probability and inferential statistics.