February, 2003
© 2000, 2001, 2003 Scott S. Emerson, M.D., Ph.D.
Hierarchy of Statistical Goals: 7
Use of Probability Model
Sometimes choice of summary measure is more arbitrary
Types of scientific questions
·Existence of an effect on the distribution
·Direction of effect on the distribution
·Linear approximations to effect on summary measure
·Quantifying dose-response on summary measure
Only last two need dictate a choice of summary measure