Final answer:
Question your data whenever you review it, regardless of where it comes from. Initially ask about the source of the survey data to determine reliability. When examining a bell-shaped curve, focus on the standard deviation to understand score variability and distribution.
Step-by-step explanation:
Questioning Mindset for Statistics:
When looking at statistics drawn from a data set, you should bring out your questioning mindset whenever you are reviewing the data, regardless of its source. This includes data from both your company's internal records and data from outside of your control. A questioning mindset is important to evaluate the credibility and relevance of the data, identify any biases, and assess the methodology used to collect and analyze the data.
Initial Inquiry about Survey Data:
The first question Yasmine should ask when she receives survey data about customer preferences regarding her company's products is "What is the source of the data?". Knowing the source is critical in determining the reliability of the data and understanding any potential biases or limitations inherent in the data collection process.
Interpreting a Bell-Shaped Curve:
While looking at a bell-shaped curve for student test scores, to determine whether the curve accurately reflects the scores of an average class, you should examine the standard deviation. The standard deviation provides insight into the variability of test scores around the mean, which is central to understanding how spread out the scores are. Also, acknowledging the symmetry of the curve and whether it aligns with the empirical rule that approximately 68%, 95%, and 99.7% of scores fall within one, two, and three standard deviations of the mean, respectively, is important.