Sample interview questions: How do you approach data analysis and interpretation in marine biology research?
Sample answer:
- Data Preparation:
- Ensure data quality by checking for errors, outliers, and data gaps.
- Organize and format data in a structured and consistent manner.
- Transform data as necessary (e.g., log transformation, standardization) to meet assumptions of statistical tests.
- Exploratory Data Analysis:
- Use visual representations (e.g., graphs, plots) to explore patterns, trends, and relationships in the data.
- Calculate descriptive statistics (e.g., mean, median, standard deviation) to summarize data.
- Perform preliminary statistical tests (e.g., t-test, ANOVA) to identify potential relationships or differences.
- Hypothesis Testing:
- Formulate specific, testable hypotheses based on the research question and available data.
- Select appropriate statistical tests (e.g., parametric or non-parametric tests) based on data characteristics and assumptions.
- Conduct statistical analyses using appropriate software (e.g., R, SPSS, SAS) to test hypotheses.
- Interpret the results of statistical tests, considering p-values, effect sizes, and confidence intervals.
- Data Interpretation: Read full answer