Comment on the statistical evaluation of data.

Abstract

This paper represents a plea for a more professional approach to the statistical evaluation of data contained in biological research papers. On the one hand more attention needs to be given to ensuring that statistically rigorous methods are employed; the use of sophisticated methods is now a possibility due to the wide availability of statistical computer packages. Examples are presented of some interesting applications of the multivariate techniques Cluster Analysis and Principal Component Analysis, the data being drawn from early research work into in-vitro fertilization.