What is hypothesis testing?

Hypothesis testing is a crucial statistical method used to assess the validity of assumptions or claims made about a population based on sample data. This approach involves formulating a null hypothesis, which represents the default position or statement of no effect, and an alternative hypothesis that indicates the presence of an effect or a difference.

In the testing process, statistical techniques are employed to analyze the sample data and determine whether there is sufficient evidence to reject the null hypothesis in favor of the alternative. The results of the hypothesis test provide a basis for making inferences about the overall population, guiding decisions in various fields such as medicine, business, and social sciences.

By using hypothesis testing, researchers can draw more reliable conclusions and make informed decisions based on empirical evidence, rather than assumptions alone. Thus, it plays a vital role in data analytics and scientific research.