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"The beginner in experimentation too often finds himself supplied with a pair of elaborate mechanisms. In the one hand is a mass of data demanding simplification and interpretation, while in the other is a complex statistical methodology said to be necessary to research. How shall the two be geared together? Since the data can be only inefficiently utilized without statistical method, and since method is futile until applied to data, it seems strange that greater effort has not been made to unite the two. The biologist who has not been able to keep abreast of the progress of statistics finds himself a bit confused by the new ideas and technical terms. It is thought that he will welcome a statement of them in a form that will not require too much distraction of his attention from necessary professional duties. It is a fundamental belief of the author that statistical method can be used competently by scientists not especially trained in mathematics. The conditions surrounding the mathematical theorems can be set forth in terms quite readily understood by the lay reader. Since mastery of two sciences is possible for only few, it is necessary for most of us to advance by cooperation. To the mathematical statistician must be delegated the tasks of developing the theory and devising the methods, accompanying these latter by adequate statements of the limitations on their use. None but the biologist can decide whether the conditions are fulfilled in his experiments and interpret the results. The only mathematics used in this book is arithmetic, supplemented by enough symbolism to make the exposition intelligible"--Preface. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved).

Agriculture --- Statistical methods.