12.2 t-test and p-values
Hypothesis tests serve as the foundation of statistical inference, but t-tests and p-values are the butter that make the bread more palatable. With these concepts, we can go beyond simple observation and provide concrete, quantifiable evidence for our claims. T-tests are a powerful tool that allow us to compare the means of two groups and determine whether their difference is statistically significant.
P-values, on the other hand, provide a measure of the strength of evidence against the null hypothesis. They are an essential component of significance testing, enabling us to determine whether our results are meaningful or simply the result of chance. Together, t-tests and p-values form a critical part of any statistical analysis, providing a solid foundation for drawing reliable conclusions from our data.
12.2.1 What is a t-test?
A t-test is a statistical method that is used to determine whether there is a significant difference between the means of two groups...