Basic Statistics and Pharmaceutical Statistical Applications

The information is basic, as it should have been and very well organized. As a research physician, I am often exposed to stat discussions, but felt that my knowledge was somewhat chaotic and though I was able to follow discussions, I was just "not getting it": why were analysis done in the certain way, why one test was chosen over another, why some scientific articles were severely criticized for unsuitable statistics. Chapter by chapter, De Muth teaches to treat data based on its essential characteristics (just as one would recognize a person based on gender, age, facial features...). Most importantly, once you "recognize" your data, book explains, step by step, how to choose a proper stat test for each specific type of data. Book is not heavy on complex equations. It explains logic for figuring out specific stat parameters before it introduces an equation. Conveniently, at the end of each chapter, De Muth gives a number of practice questions and answers. On a negative side, I recognized a number of typographical errors, but generally very satisfied with this book. It was much more helpful that other stat books and articles that I had reviewed.

As the cover of the text would indicate, James DeMuth's "Basic Statistics and Pharmaceutical Statistical Applications" sends the reader on a roller coaster ride through the intriguing world of statitics. In this edition, Dr. Demuth astutely details the methodology necessary to summarize data and make informed decisions about observed outcomes. More importantly though, he provides concrete examples which enable the reader to effectively deploy the information in their day-to-day lives. This edition, undoubtedly the first of many more to come, should prove to be an invaluable resource for students, practicing pharmacists and industrial scientists alike.