The Difference Between a Statistic and a Fact

People might ask certain statistics questions, especially how they are different from facts. Understandably, telling them apart can be confusing because they are closely related. We are here to set the record straight. Take a look:

What’s the Difference Between Facts and Statistics?

Statistics is a science that involves analyzing facts. Facts are realities without arguments and false representations. When you collect several facts and then draw conclusions from them, you are creating statistics.

For example, statistics can tell us that the average temperature in a particular city was 73°F last week. We must have collected facts to come to this conclusion. Perhaps we studied the temperature readings for each day of that week and then determined the average.

What Do You Call Facts and Statistics?

Together, you call facts and statistics data. You use data to explain why something is the way that it is or why something is likely to happen.

Can Statistics Be Used as Facts?

You can use statistics as facts, but you must not rely on them as absolute truths. Statistics can change and you can interpret them differently. Moreover, you can easily manipulate statistics. After all, they are just numbers. When you have more context for a statistic, it can appear more factual. Instead of using statistics as facts, you can use them to support facts.

What Are the 3 Types of Statistics?

Statistics has three branches:

  1. Data Collection: Involves how you obtain the factors in your study.
  2. Descriptive Statistics: Involves how you present the data you collected.
  3. Inferential Statistics: Involves the conclusions you make based on the data.

What Is the Purpose of Facts and Statistics?

Facts and statistics are essential for research, problem-solving, and decision-making. When you include facts and statistics in any presentation, you are grounding your statements in reality. Thus, you are presenting yourself as a credible source of information.

What Are 5 Examples of Facts?

Here are five facts about global wealth:

  1. The top 1% has a minimum net worth of $11.1 million.
  2. You will need to earn an annual average of $823,763 to join the top 1%.
  3. The wealthiest members of society are dominating public and private equity.
  4. The U.S. had 927 billionaires in 2020.
  5. China had 410 billionaires in 2020.

What Is an Example of a Statistic?

Using global wealth as another example, a statistic would be that the average salary of all U.S. workers was $45,470.1 in 2021. This statistic supports the fact that a person will need to earn $823,763 to join the billionaire population.

What Are the 5 Reasons for Statistics?

Five important reasons for studying statistics include:

  1. Statistics are necessary for effective research.
  2. Statistics help you understand technical journals.
  3. Statistics help develop critical and analytical thinking skills.
  4. Statistics help you become an informed consumer.
  5. Statistics are important to know when you need professional help.

Why Is It Called a Fact?

We call them facts because they come from the Latin word, factum. Originally, it meant an act. In that sense, it is an action that you do. Thus, if you can verify an action (or statement), it is a fact.

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