Biostatistics: practice question

A PSM question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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PSM · Biostatistics

Sample item

The chi-square test is used to:

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

C. Test association between categorical variables

The chi-square test compares observed with expected frequencies in a contingency table to test association between categorical variables, such as exposure and disease. Two means are compared with a t test, correlation with Pearson's r, and three or more means with ANOVA.

Option by option

  • A. Compare the means of three or more groups

    Three or more means are compared with analysis of variance.

  • B. Compare the means of two groups

    Two means are compared with a t test.

  • C. Test association between categorical variables (correct)

    Correct. It tests whether proportions differ more than chance would explain.

  • D. Measure correlation between two continuous variables

    Correlation coefficients measure the linear relationship of continuous variables.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this PSM question

What is the answer to this PSM question?

The best answer is C, Test association between categorical variables. The chi-square test compares observed with expected frequencies in a contingency table to test association between categorical variables, such as exposure and disease.

Why is "Compare the means of three or more groups" not the answer?

Three or more means are compared with analysis of variance.

Why is "Compare the means of two groups" not the answer?

Two means are compared with a t test.

Why is "Measure correlation between two continuous variables" not the answer?

Correlation coefficients measure the linear relationship of continuous variables.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Biostatistics in PSM. Two means are compared with a t test, correlation with Pearson's r, and three or more means with ANOVA.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Biostatistics?

Practise biostatistics with small calculations until sensitivity, predictive values and risk measures are automatic. Then use the flashcards and the other PSM questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.