Table of contents
- 1. Intro to Stats and Collecting Data55m
- 2. Describing Data with Tables and Graphs1h 55m
- 3. Describing Data Numerically1h 45m
- 4. Probability2h 16m
- 5. Binomial Distribution & Discrete Random Variables2h 33m
- 6. Normal Distribution and Continuous Random Variables1h 38m
- 7. Sampling Distributions & Confidence Intervals: Mean1h 3m
- 8. Sampling Distributions & Confidence Intervals: Proportion1h 12m
- 9. Hypothesis Testing for One Sample1h 1m
- 10. Hypothesis Testing for Two Samples2h 8m
- 11. Correlation48m
- 12. Regression1h 4m
- 13. Chi-Square Tests & Goodness of Fit1h 20m
- 14. ANOVA1h 0m
1. Intro to Stats and Collecting Data
Intro to Stats
Problem 1.2.2.3
Textbook Question
Quantitative/Categorical Data Identify each of the following as quantitative data or categorical data
c. The colors of the M&M candies in Data Set 38 “Candies†in Appendix B

1
Understand the difference between quantitative and categorical data: Quantitative data represents numerical values that can be measured or counted (e.g., height, weight, age), while categorical data represents characteristics or attributes that can be grouped into categories (e.g., colors, types, labels).
Examine the data provided in the problem. The problem mentions the 'colors of the M&M candies,' which are descriptive attributes rather than numerical values.
Determine whether the data can be measured or counted numerically. Since colors are descriptive and cannot be measured numerically, they do not qualify as quantitative data.
Classify the data as categorical. Colors represent categories (e.g., red, blue, green) and are used to group or classify the candies.
Conclude that the colors of the M&M candies in the given data set are an example of categorical data.

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above
Video duration:
1mPlay a video:
Was this helpful?
Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Quantitative Data
Quantitative data refers to numerical information that can be measured and expressed mathematically. This type of data allows for statistical analysis and can be used to calculate averages, variances, and other statistical measures. Examples include height, weight, and temperature, where the values can be quantified and compared.
Recommended video:
Guided course
Visualizing Qualitative vs. Quantitative Data
Categorical Data
Categorical data represents characteristics or qualities that can be divided into distinct groups or categories. This type of data is often non-numeric and can include labels or names, such as colors, types, or classifications. Categorical data can be further divided into nominal (no inherent order) and ordinal (with a meaningful order) categories.
Recommended video:
Guided course
Visualizing Qualitative vs. Quantitative Data
Data Classification
Data classification is the process of organizing data into categories based on shared characteristics. Understanding whether data is quantitative or categorical is crucial for selecting appropriate statistical methods and analyses. This classification helps in interpreting data correctly and applying the right statistical tests for analysis.
Recommended video:
Guided course
Visualizing Qualitative vs. Quantitative Data
Watch next
Master Introduction to Statistics Channel with a bite sized video explanation from Patrick
Start learning