What is a statistic in the context of sample data?

A statistic in the context of sample data refers to a value derived from sample measurements. This means that it is calculated based on the data collected from a subset of the population, known as the sample. For instance, if researchers want to understand the average height of students at a university, they might measure the heights of a group of students (the sample) and calculate the average height from that. This calculated average height is considered a statistic.

In contrast, other options mention concepts that do not accurately define what a statistic is. A method for analyzing data refers to techniques used in statistical analysis, not the resulting values that come from sample data. A fixed value representing a population is known as a parameter, not a statistic, as parameters are typically derived from the entire population rather than a sample. Lastly, a type of statistical error pertains to mistakes made during analysis or inference, rather than the values derived from data itself. Thus, the definition of a statistic as a value derived from sample measurements is both accurate and fundamental to understanding the application of statistics in research.