Understanding Business Statistics

Preface

Years of teaching introductory courses in business statistics have taught us a good deal about what students value in a textbook. Number one is clarity of presentation. Students want a book that explains things clearly and concisely, with a sharp focus and a minimum amount of jargon. They also want a text that is examples-driven and divided into digestible sections, with plenty of opportunities to check their progress and test their understanding. Beyond merely mastering theory and concept, today's students are motivated by the prospect of real-world applications and current relevance. They want to know not only how things work, but where and when they work. And while students value a book that's relaxed in tone and manageable in content, they don't want a text that's condescending or simplistic. It's with these principles firmly in mind that we chose to write this book.

As you'll shortly see, each chapter of the book begins with a vignette highlighting an everyday application of statistics or focusing on an important contribution to the field. These brief introductions, intended to stimulate student interest and offer context for the upcoming topic, exemplify our commitment to engaging students from the outset and motivating their curiosity. We think you'll find the presentation that follows relevant and concise, and well-suited to the needs and challenges of today's business ...