Statistical and Data Handling Skills in Biology

All biologists need to be able to handle numbers, yet students of biology often approach this topic fearfully. This guide helps to, develop key skills for the study of biology in the minimum time through guided practise. Statistical and Data Handling Skills in Biology is an easy-to-use handbook which concentrates on essentials. It explains why certain mathematical concepts can help in biology and describes them in simple language and pictures with few equations. Numerous worked examples and problems from real biological situations are provided. The book first shows how to handle numbers and S.I. units. It then explains why variation is such a problem in biology and shows how to use statistical tests to separate real effects from the background variation. Finally it explains how to choose appropriate statistical tests to, analyse data and how to improve the design of experiments. Students will develop confidence in dealing with numbers by working through the problems provided. Key features include: - takes a biological viewpoint; - clear, concise coverage of essential concepts; - helpful explanations and pictures with a minimum of equations; - step-by-step guides to statistical tests; - guidance on using computer-based statistical packages; - decision charts for choosing statistical tests; - worked examples and problems, with solutions provided. This book makes an ideal companion for biologists at all levels, as a text for elementary courses for sixth form and first year undergraduate students, a self-study guide, or as a laboratory handbook for the working biologist.