Final answer:
Statistics can only describe past events is not true since statistics are used not only for descriptive analysis but also for making inferences and predictions about future events.option c is correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student is asking which of the following is not accurate regarding the benefits of statistics. Out of the choices given, c) Statistics can only describe past events is not true. Statistics indeed provide a systematic way to analyze data and help make informed decisions as stated in a) and b). Additionally, statistics do assist in identifying patterns and trends, as stated in d). However, stating that statistics can only describe past events is incorrect since statistics, specifically through the use of inferential statistics, are also used to make predictions about future events or to infer the properties of a population based on a sample.
There are two main types of statistics, such as descriptive and inferential statistics. Descriptive statistics involves organizing and summarizing data, which can include creating graphs and calculating averages. On the other hand, inferential statistics uses probability to draw conclusions about a population based on a sample, which includes making predictions, estimating population parameters, and testing hypotheses.
In essence, statistics are used not only to describe historical data but also to infer and predict future outcomes, improve decision-making processes, and understand the likelihood of events. This can be seen across various fields such as sociology, political science, and more. Hence, to say that statistics are confined to describing past events is a misconception.