A Comprehensive Guide for Selecting Appropriate Statistical Tests: Understanding When to Use Parametric and Nonparametric Tests

Abstract

Choosing appropriate statistical tests is crucial but deciding which tests to use can be challenging. Different tests suit different types of data and research questions, so it is important to choose the right one. Knowing how to select an appropriate test can lead to more accurate results. Invalid results and misleading conclusions may be drawn from a study if an incorrect statistical test is used. Therefore, to avoid these it is essential to understand the nature of the data, the research question, and the assumptions of the tests before selecting one. This is because there are a wide variety of tests available. This paper provides a step-by-step approach to selecting the right statistical test for any study, with an explanation of when it is appropriate to use it and relevant examples of each statistical test. Furthermore, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of the assumptions of each test and what to do if these assumptions are violated.