Before hypothesis testing and at the beginning of a study, a researcher is advised to conduct _____ because it _____.
A) a power analysis; tells the researcher the number of participants needed for trustworthy results
B) an effect size estimate; tells the researcher the number of participants needed for trustworthy results
C) a statistical significance; determines how meaningful the study results will be
D) alpha testing; determines how meaningful the study results will be

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Conducting a power analysis before hypothesis testing helps the researcher determine the sample size needed to achieve adequate statistical power, which is the probability of detecting a true effect if one exists. This will ensure that the results are trustworthy and not due to chance. An effect size estimate and statistical significance are important, but they are typically calculated after the power analysis has been conducted and the sample size has been determined. Alpha testing is not a relevant term in this context.

Before Hypothesis Testing and at the Beginning of a Study