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References for Introduction to Statistics

Curated resources to deepen your understanding of foundational statistics concepts including data, variables, populations, samples, and the distinction between parameters and statistics.

Wikipedia Articles

  1. Statistics - Wikipedia - Comprehensive overview of statistics as a discipline, covering its history, key concepts, and applications in science, government, and business. Excellent starting point for understanding what statisticians do.

  2. Data - Wikipedia - Explains what data is, the difference between qualitative and quantitative data, and how data is collected and used across various fields. Helps clarify the raw material of statistical analysis.

  3. Statistical population - Wikipedia - Defines population in statistical terms and explains the relationship between populations, samples, and inference. Essential for understanding why we sample instead of studying entire populations.

Textbooks

  1. The Practice of Statistics by Daren S. Starnes, Josh Tabor, and Dan Yates - W.H. Freeman (2018) - The standard AP Statistics textbook used in many high schools. Chapter 1 provides an excellent introduction to data, variables, and the statistical process with numerous real-world examples.

  2. Stats: Modeling the World by David E. Bock, Paul F. Velleman, and Richard D. De Veaux - Pearson (2019) - Approachable introduction emphasizing statistical thinking over computation. The early chapters on data and variables use engaging contexts that resonate with high school students.

Online Resources

  1. Khan Academy: Statistics and Probability - Khan Academy - Free video lessons covering the basics of statistics including types of variables, sampling, and the difference between parameters and statistics. Interactive practice problems reinforce each concept.

  2. AP Statistics Course Description - College Board - The official course framework document that defines what AP Statistics covers. Helpful for understanding the scope and expectations of the AP exam.

  3. Stat Trek: Statistics Tutorial - Stat Trek - Clear, well-organized explanations of fundamental statistics concepts with examples and self-assessment quizzes. The sections on populations, samples, and variables are particularly helpful.

  4. Against All Odds: Inside Statistics Video Series - Annenberg Learner - Video series that brings statistics to life through real-world applications. Episode 1 introduces the field and demonstrates how statistics is used in various professions.

  5. OpenIntro Statistics Textbook - OpenIntro - Free, open-source introductory statistics textbook available as a PDF. Chapter 1 covers the fundamentals of data and study design with modern examples and exercises.