Numbers can't "talk," but they can tell you as much as your human sources can. But just like with human sources, you have to ask!

So what should you ask a number? Well, mathematicians have developed an entire field - statistics - dedicated to getting answers out of numbers. Now, you don't have to have a degree in statistics in order to conduct an effective "interview" with your data. But you do need to know a few basics.

Here, described in plain English, are some basic concepts in statistics that every writer should know...

So, You're a Beginner?

• Mean
  Let's get started...
• Median
  How to find out how the "average Joe" is doing
• Percent
  Ch-ch-ch-changes...

The Next Step: Not Getting Duped

• Per capita and Rates
  When an increase is really a decrease
  and other ways people can use numbers to trick you
• Standard Deviation and Normal Distribution
  A quick look at the King of Stats
• Margin of Error and Confidence Interval
  How not to get suckered by polls and other research
• Data Analysis
  How to tell if these numbers are really worth writing about anyway

Frequently Asked Questions

• Sample Sizes
  So how come a survey of 1,600 people can tell me what 250 million are thinking?

Ask for Help...

• The Stats Board
  Post your question about statistics, or help someone else by posting an answer to his or her problem.

Read More about Statistics

• For those of you who would like to learn more about statistics and journalism, the author has recommended several books for additional reading.

Search for a Specific Lesson

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Make use of your statistics skills by Finding Data on the Internet

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