If you’ve ever felt anxious at the mention of statistics, this book might just change your mind. “Statistics for People Who (Think They) Hate Statistics, 7th Edition” by Neil J. Salkind and Bruce B. Frey is a refreshingly accessible and friendly guide that transforms complex statistical concepts into something you can understand — and even enjoy. This latest edition has been carefully updated to reflect the most recent advancements in statistical thinking, tools, and technology, ensuring readers get the most relevant learning experience possible.
About the Book
Published by SAGE Publications, the 7th Edition of Statistics for People Who (Think They) Hate Statistics continues the tradition of simplifying statistical learning for students in psychology, sociology, education, nursing, business, and other social sciences. Unlike traditional statistics textbooks filled with formulas and dense explanations, this book takes a practical, conversational approach.
Neil J. Salkind, known for his engaging writing style, first designed the book to break down barriers to learning statistics. With Bruce Frey joining in this edition, the book becomes even more interactive and learner-friendly. The authors blend humor, real-world examples, and relatable analogies to help readers grasp difficult topics like hypothesis testing, correlation, regression, and inferential statistics without intimidation.
What’s New in the 7th Edition
The 7th edition introduces updated datasets, SPSS and Excel integration, and a more comprehensive approach to data literacy and statistical reasoning. Some key updates include:
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Expanded coverage of data visualization and interpretation, making it easier to connect statistical results with real-world meaning.
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Updated SPSS instructions for the latest version of the software, with clearer step-by-step examples for students who are new to data analysis.
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New examples and exercises that relate to current topics in the social sciences, education, and health research.
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Increased focus on conceptual understanding rather than memorization, encouraging readers to think critically about data.
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Access to online learning resources such as quizzes, videos, practice datasets, and chapter summaries.
This version makes sure that readers not only perform statistical tests correctly but also understand why they’re doing them and how to interpret the results.
Book Structure and Content
The book is organized into short, manageable chapters, each designed to build upon the last. Salkind and Frey use plain language and humor to explain statistical terms that might otherwise be intimidating. The topics include:
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Introduction to Statistics – Understanding what statistics are and why they matter.
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Measuring Variables – Exploring scales, reliability, and validity in data collection.
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Descriptive Statistics – Learning how to summarize and describe data.
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Inferential Statistics – Making predictions and decisions based on data samples.
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Correlation and Regression – Exploring relationships between variables.
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Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) – Comparing multiple groups with ease.
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Nonparametric Tests – Handling data that doesn’t fit traditional assumptions.
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Using SPSS and Excel – A guide to using modern tools for data analysis.
Each chapter concludes with “Time to Practice” exercises and self-check questions, helping readers reinforce what they’ve learned.
Why This Book Stands Out
What makes Statistics for People Who (Think They) Hate Statistics truly unique is its approachable teaching style. The authors don’t just throw numbers and equations at you — they use examples from everyday life, relatable metaphors, and humor to make the subject engaging.
Some standout features include:
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Friendly Tone: The writing is conversational and lighthearted, breaking down psychological barriers to learning math.
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Hands-On Learning: The book encourages active participation through exercises, quizzes, and mini projects.
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Real-World Relevance: Examples are drawn from real research in psychology, education, and health sciences.
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Visual Learning: Charts, diagrams, and illustrations make complex topics visually digestible.
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SPSS and Excel Tutorials: Clear guidance helps students apply what they’ve learned using real software tools.
Ideal for Beginners and Professionals Alike
This book is not just for students. It’s also perfect for:
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Researchers who need a quick, clear refresher on statistical methods.
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Educators who want to explain data analysis in an easy, relatable way.
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Professionals in business or healthcare who analyze data for reports or decision-making.
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Anyone preparing for exams or projects involving statistics.
Whether you’re just starting your academic journey or returning to data analysis after years away, this book makes statistics feel manageable and — dare we say — fun.
Learning Support and Companion Resources
SAGE Publications provides a robust set of online resources to accompany the book. These include:
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Interactive quizzes to test comprehension.
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Datasets for SPSS and Excel practice.
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Step-by-step video tutorials.
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Instructor resources such as PowerPoint slides and test banks.
The combination of textbook and online materials creates a complete learning experience that helps reinforce every concept.
Authors’ Background
Neil J. Salkind (Ph.D., University of Kansas) was a respected professor and author known for his clarity in teaching and writing on statistics, research design, and child development. His mission was to make statistics less intimidating and more practical.
Bruce B. Frey (Ph.D.) is also a professor at the University of Kansas, specializing in educational psychology and research design. His contributions bring a modern touch and deeper focus on applied statistics.
Together, their collaboration ensures the book remains both engaging and academically reliable.
Book Details
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Title: Statistics for People Who (Think They) Hate Statistics
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Edition: 7th Edition
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Authors: Neil J. Salkind and Bruce B. Frey
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Publisher: SAGE Publications
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Format: Paperback / eBook
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Language: English
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Pages: Around 520 pages
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ISBN: Available through major online retailers
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Availability: Widely available on Amazon, SAGE, and other academic book retailers
Conclusion
The 7th Edition of “Statistics for People Who (Think They) Hate Statistics” is more than just a textbook — it’s a confidence booster for anyone who’s ever struggled with numbers. By focusing on simplicity, humor, and hands-on learning, Salkind and Frey turn an often-feared subject into something practical and even enjoyable.