Define statistics in plural sense. Give its any two characteristics.
In the plural sense, statistics means numerical facts systematically collected relating to any field of enquiry. In other words, statistics in its plural sense refers to 'data'. Main features of statistics as a numerical data are :
(i) Statistical data is an aggregate of facts: A single number does not constitute statistics. Only when numbers are placed in relation to each other and conclusions can be drawn from it then they constitute statistical data.
(ii) Statistical data is numerically expressed: Statistics are expressed only in quantitative figures. Qualitative aspects of a problem do not constitute statistics.
(iii) Statistical data has reasonable standards of accuracy: Statistics are reasonably accurate though it has limitations. The accuracy of the statistical data depends upon the purpose of investigation, nature, size of sample and method of collecting data.
(iv) Statistical data is placed in relation to each other: Statistical data should be comparable. Data should be placed in such a way that these can be compared. Comparisons are possible only if the data are homogeneous.