Customer Reviews

Statistics II for Dummies

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I teach statistics at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Statistics 2 for Dummies is a well-written and easy-to-understand text which can be easily used in both the classroom and as a secondary reference source. Deborah Rumsey presents plenty of examples along with sufficient clear explanation to help the reader move from one level to the next. Someone well motivated can use this text to learn the basics for more advanced statistics; however, this text would be even more useful with a knowledgeable and patient instructor.

I would suggest making one significant change for future editions. The author relies on the Minitab software package when discussing the use of computer aided statistical analysis. There are better, and often cheaper, software packages available for the user. Students will most likely have PASW, formally SPSS, available at most institutions of higher education. In addition, Amazon and many other retail outlets selling to students and faculty will have relatively inexpensive versions of this more powerful software available. While Minitab remains a viable option, and is certainly usable where available, I would recommend that in the next edition the author include instruction for the more popular PASW software package. Similarly, the program Mathematica should be at least mentioned in the text discussing computer aided statistical analysis, especially since this is a top choice for many in mathematics, economics, and many sciences.

Rumsey's book does a very good job in tackling the types of regression in the use in making predictions. In addition the section covering nonparametric methods is very useful. As expected, these are advanced methods for statistical analysis, and the author assumes a moderately strong understanding of basic statistics. Fortunately, the author also refer to her first book, statistics one, to help guide the reader for remedial study.

As a professor the book's greatest advantage is its relatively low price, something very important to today student. It is relatively easy to read, which makes the learning experience better. One item worth noting is the absence of exercises or material to test the reader's understanding. It would be easier to select this book for use in the classroom if such material were included or readily available from the publisher. Since this text appears to be primarily for the consumer market adding such material to the book would likely raise the price and defeat the purpose of the Dummies line of books. Based on this I typically use this book as a recommended reading and reference for my students.

Statistics 2 for Dummies is THE source for me to get the ideas and methods to make informed decisions for my business. The best part of this book is that Professor Rumsey actually uses plain, understandable English! I think that this book would be an asset for your business, or for your college-level coursework.

I wouldn't recommend this book for first time stats learners, but it's the best reference book on my desk - this is my offline stats Wiki.

Ah, just saw this book I bought and asking to review it. GLADLY.
Bought this for my son who attended WPI -- and had taken Statistics I THREE times before he passed (required course)... and then had to take Statistics II to graduate. NO TIME to take it three times!

I don't know if he read this, or worked from it or what, but I am THRILLED to say that he PASSED Stats II first time -- and graduated on time!!! Yes, 4 years. Halleluyah!!!

Handy manual which explains a confusing subject in plain English. You will have to be proficient in Algebra and math before you start on the book.

This book is the reason I have an A in statistics. This book is one of a series. I have Statistics for dummies and the workbook as well. It turns out this book is actuallya little more in depth than the scope of the class. It has been helpful full of tips and hints to help out when needed.

The book arrived way ahead of schedule and in the condition promised. It has been very helpful with my classes in pharmacy school.

This was a useful tool for me as I am an older student and needed more input.

The product was delivered on a timely basis and it arrived in excellent condition! Also, the product itself was great and extremely informative and educational;