Tied scores often present a problem in distribution-free tests. The most common way to deal with them in a Mann-Whitney test is to
A) flip a coin.
B) use a random number table.
C) assign tied ranks.
D) throw out the tied data.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Assigning tied ranks is the best way to handle tied scores in a Mann-Whitney test. This involves giving each tied observation the average rank of its tied group. This preserves the order of the data and allows for accurate rank sum calculations. Flipping a coin or using a random number table introduces unnecessary randomness and throwing out tied data can result in a loss of important information.

Tied Scores Often Present a Problem in Distribution-Free Tests