Books › Textbooks › Science & Mathematics

Probably Overthinking It: How to Use Data to Answer Questions, Avoid Statistical Traps, and Make Better Decisions

Name: Probably Overthinking It: How to Use Data to Answer Questions, Avoid Statistical Traps, and Make Better Decisions
Price: 21.60 USD
Availability: InStock

$21.60

Buying Options

Description

Book Synopsis: An essential guide to the ways data can improve decision making. Statistics are everywhere: in news reports, at the doctor's office, and in every sort of forecast, from the stock market to the weather. Blogger, teacher, and computer scientist Allen B. Downey knows well that people have an innate ability both to understand statistics and to be fooled by them. As he makes clear in this accessible introduction to statistical thinking, the stakes are big. Simple misunderstandings have led to incorrect medical prognoses, underestimated the likelihood of large earthquakes, hindered social justice efforts, and resulted in dubious policy decisions. There are right and wrong ways to look at numbers, and Downey will help you see which are which. Probably Overthinking It uses real data to delve into real examples with real consequences, drawing on cases from health campaigns, political movements, chess rankings, and more. He lays out common pitfalls—like the base rate fallacy, length-biased sampling, and Simpson's paradox—and shines a light on what we learn when we interpret data correctly, and what goes wrong when we don't. Using data visualizations instead of equations, he builds understanding from the basics to help you recognize errors, whether in your own thinking or in media reports. Even if you have never studied statistics—or if you have and forgot everything you learned—this book will offer new insight into the methods and measurements that help us understand the world.

Details

Looking to make better decisions and avoid statistical traps? Probably Overthinking It: How to Use Data to Answer Questions, Avoid Statistical Traps, and Make Better Decisions is the essential guide you need. In today's data-driven world, statistics play a crucial role in our decision-making processes. Whether it's understanding news reports, making healthcare choices, or predicting market trends, having a solid grasp of statistics is essential.

Written by blogger, teacher, and computer scientist Allen B. Downey, this book is designed to help you navigate the complexities of statistical thinking. Downey delves into real-world examples with real consequences, showcasing the impacts of both correct and incorrect interpretations of data. From health campaigns to political movements, he highlights common pitfalls and teaches you how to avoid them.

One of the key strengths of Probably Overthinking It is its accessibility. Downey uses data visualizations instead of equations, making the content easy to follow for readers from all backgrounds. Whether you've never studied statistics or have simply forgotten what you learned, this book will provide you with new insights into the methods and measurements that shape our understanding of the world.

Don't fall victim to statistical traps and misinformation. Equip yourself with the knowledge to make informed decisions. Discover the power of statistical thinking with Probably Overthinking It: How to Use Data to Answer Questions, Avoid Statistical Traps, and Make Better Decisions. Order your copy today!

Order Now

See All Buying Options...

More Details...