Statistics are part of the everyday language of sociology and the other social sciences (including political science, social work, public administration, criminal justice, urban studies, and gerontology). These disciplines are research-based and routinely use statistics to express knowledge and to discuss theory and research. To join the conversations being conducted in these disciplines, you must be literate in the vocabulary of research, data analysis, and scientific thinking. Knowledge of statistics will enable you to understand the professional research literature, conduct quantitative research yourself, contribute to the growing body of social science knowledge, and reach your full potential as a social scientist. Although essential, learning (and teaching) statistics can be a challenge. Students in social science statistics courses typically bring with them a wide range of mathematical backgrounds and an equally diverse set of career goals. They are often puzzled about the...