JSM 2004 - Toronto

Abstract #301997

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Activity Number: 148
Type: Topic Contributed
Date/Time: Monday, August 9, 2004 : 2:00 PM to 3:50 PM
Sponsor: Biometrics Section
Abstract - #301997
Title: The Solution to the Two-sample Location Problem
Author(s): Michael J. Schell*+
Companies: University of North Carolina
Address: , Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7295,
Keywords: two-sample problem ; t-test ; Wilcoxon rank sum test ; statistical practice
Abstract:

The two-sample location problem is perhaps the most frequently encountered problem in statistical practice. Although many tests have been proposed, over 99% of applications use either the pooled t-test or Wilcoxon rank sum test. Many standard textbooks suggest using the Wilcoxon rank sum test for small samples, and the t-test for large samples. Greater statistical power is achieved by taking the opposite approach. For small samples, either a pooled or unequal variance t-test should be used, usually after a preliminary test for equality of variance has been conducted. For large samples, a Wilcoxon rank sum test with normal scores is best. A structured guideline is presented for selecting the appropriate test, while preserving definitive inference.

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