1.1.5 Statistical Modelling

Statistical Modelling

A statistical model allows you to use mathematics to model real-life situations
- You could model the temperature throughout of a city throughout a month
- You could model the sleeping times of a baby
There are advantages to using a statistical model
- It simplifies the complicated real-life situation
- It can be made quickly and easily
- It can be used to make predictions for real-life
There are also things to consider when using a statistical model
- It does not consider all the real-life features from the situation
- It might only be applicable for specific scenarios
- It might not provide accurate predictions for the future

Stage 1
A real-life problem is identified
Stage 2
An initial statistical model is designed
Stage 3
The model is used to make predictions
Stage 4
Real-life data is collected
Stage 5
Comparisons are made between the expected values from the model and the observed values from the data
Stage 6
Consideration of the data selection and collection processes alongside statistical tests are used to assess the validity of the model
Stage 7
The model is adjusted and improved (if necessary) based on the results

Questions on statistical modelling are rare but it is worth remembering the steps. Easy marks if it comes up.