Choice Outstanding Academic Title Award Winner The dynamic, student focused textbook provides step-by-step instruction in the use of R and of statistical language as a general research tool. It is ideal for anyone hoping to: Complete an introductory course in statistics Prepare for more advanced statistical courses Gain the transferable analytical skills needed to interpret research from across the social sciences Learn the technical skills needed to present data visually Acquire a basic competence in the use of R. The book provides readers with the conceptual foundation to use applied statistical methods in everyday research. Each statistical method is developed within the context of practical, real-world examples and is supported by carefully developed pedagogy and jargon-free definitions. Theory is introduced as an accessible and adaptable tool and is always contextualized within the pragmatic context of real research projects and definable research questions. Author Robert Stinerock has also created a wide range of online resources, including: R scripts, complete solutions for all exercises, data files for each chapter, video and screen casts, and interactive multiple-choice quizzes.