Statistical Test Recommendation Tool

Statistical Test Recommendation Tool

How to determine what statistical method to use?

This tool helps you choose statistical tests for your research. Use the dropdowns below:
- Study Design: E.g., Observational for cohort studies, RCT for trials.
- Data Type: E.g., Continuous for measurements like height, Categorical for groups like gender.
- Normality: Check if continuous data is normally distributed (use Q-Q plots, Shapiro-Wilk test, or histograms).
- Groups: Number of groups compared (select ‘Not Applicable’ for descriptive studies).
- Data Structure: Independent (different groups) or Paired (same group over time).
For complex designs like cluster trials, consult a statistician. Always verify test assumptions (e.g., normality, sample size).

Select Study Design: Observational (e.g., cohort, case-control)Experimental (e.g., lab studies)Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT)Quasi-Experimental (e.g., non-randomized intervention)Survey (e.g., questionnaires)Case Study (e.g., single case analysis)Prevalence Study (e.g., estimating disease rates)Survival/Time-to-Event Study (e.g., time to recovery) Select Data Type: Continuous (e.g., blood pressure, weight)Categorical (e.g., gender, disease status)Count (e.g., number of hospital visits)Ordinal (e.g., pain scale: mild, moderate, severe)Time-to-Event (e.g., days until recovery) Normality Assumption (for Continuous Data): Not ApplicableData is Normally DistributedData is Not Normally Distributed Number of Groups (if applicable): Not ApplicableOne (Comparison to a Standard)TwoMore than Two Data Structure: Not ApplicableIndependent (e.g., different groups)Paired/Repeated Measures (e.g., same group over time)

Recommendation:

This tool was prepared by PublicHealthVoice.com by taking references from:
- BMJ: Study Design and Choosing a Statistical Test
- Daniel, W. W., & Cross, C. L. (2018). Biostatistics: A Foundation for Analysis in the Health Sciences (10th ed.). Wiley.
- Campbell, M. J., Machin, D., & Walters, S. J. (2021). Medical Statistics: A Textbook for the Health Sciences (5th ed.). Wiley.
- Altman, D. G. (1990). Practical Statistics for Medical Research. Chapman and Hall/CRC.