Definition Descriptive statistics

In this case, statistical methods for the description and analysis of data are combined. These can be carried out through the use of tables or graphs by calculating the amount of simple parameters such as the mean value. More complicated calculations such as scattering parameters, standard deviation, and correlation coefficient can also be included. Descriptive statistical parameters describe only what applies to participants in a survey or observation. If conclusions shall be derived from the data for a certain basic population, methods of inductive statistics are used.

For example, in a survey, 10,000 respondents indicate how much money they earn each month and how much money they spend on leisure activities. The calculated correlation coefficient shows that there is a relationship between income and willingness to spend money on vacation. This conclusion applies only to the respondents themselves - the inference to the basic population from which the respondents are chosen is only possible after a test focusing on significance is conducted. This test is part of inductive statistics.