Monthly Archives: June 2010

Weapons of Math Production

In theory, if you have the free time, you can calculate any statistic you might need using nothing more than a pencil and paper. After all, it’s just matrix mathematics. With a lot of data or a complicated procedure, though, … Continue reading

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Try This At Home

We are all awash in statistics. Every day, we see the probability of precipitation, the results of opinion polls, changes in the stock market, your grades in school, or the batting average of the baseball team you follow. It’s surprising, … Continue reading

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Reality Statistics

During the 1970s, statistical analyses were done on mainframe computers that were as big as elephants. They were sequestered in their own climate-controlled quarters, waited on command and reboot by a priesthood of system operators. Conducting a 1970s era statistical … Continue reading

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Why Do I Have To Take Statistics?

When you were in school, you probably asked the question, why do I have to take statistics?” Your adviser told you: “because it’s required for the degree.” “But why,” you said “why would I ever need to use statistics?” Everybody … Continue reading

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