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A hypothesis test is conducted at a significance level that is chosen:
AAfter seeing the p-value
BOnly by the calculator
CNever in practice
DBefore analysing the data
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: D. Before analysing the data
1. The significance level is the standard of proof the test must meet.
2. A test can be conducted using a 2.5 percent level of significance to answer a stated question.
3. Setting that level in advance is what keeps the decision honest.
4. Choosing it after seeing the p-value would let any result be declared significant.
5. The level and the p-value are then compared to reach the decision.
_Source: OpenStax Introductory Statistics 2e (CC BY 4.0), Ch 9 'Hypothesis Testing with One Sample', sections 9.1-9.6_
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