Business Mathematics and Statistics · Class 11 Commerce
Ch 8Introduction to Statistics — Class 11 Business Mathematics and Statistics, concept-first.
The word statistics is used in two distinct senses in everyday and academic language, and keeping them apart is the first step in this chapter.
Key concepts
Hover a concept to preview it and jump to its most relevant Q&A.
Meaning and Nature of Statistics
The word 'statistics' carries two senses: in the plural it means numerical facts or data collected systematically for a purpose (Secrist's definition), and in the singular it means the science and art of collecting, pres…
Most relevant Q&A
- Explain the meaning of the term 'statistics' in its plural and singular senses, giving one standard definition of each.Free
- Trace briefly the origin and growth of statistics, and name its two main modern branches.Free
- The word 'statistics' is derived from words meaning: (a) science; (b) the State; (c) number; (d) survey. Choose the correct option and justi…Free
Chapter contents
The NCERT structure, section by section. Open a section to see its questions, then read the concept-first solution.
Meaning and Definition of Statistics
The word statistics is used in two distinct senses in everyday and academic language, and keeping them apart is the first step in this chapter.
Origin and Growth of Statistics
The subject is far older than its modern mathematical form suggests, and understanding where it came from explains why it is now indispensable to business and government alike.
Characteristics of Statistics (as Data)
Not every collection of numbers qualifies as "statistics" in the technical sense. Secrist's definition (§1) lists the features a set of figures must have before it can properly be called statistics.
Scope and Functions of Statistics
Scope of statistics. The scope of statistics is extremely wide — it is used in almost every field where numerical data is collected and decisions must be made.
Importance of Statistics in Business and Commerce
Because a Class 11 Commerce student is preparing specifically for the world of business, the importance of statistics to business deserves its own treatment.
Limitations of Statistics
For all its usefulness, statistics is a tool with definite limitations, and an honest student must understand where it stops being reliable — misusing statistics beyond these limits produces conclusio…
Relationship of Statistics with Other Disciplines
Statistics does not stand alone — it is both a method used by many disciplines and a subject that depends on others. The main relationships tested at this level are the following.
Statistical Survey — Meaning and Steps (Stages)
A statistical survey (or statistical enquiry / investigation) is the complete, organised process of collecting, organising, analysing and interpreting numerical data relating to a particular problem f…
Exercises
+−Show 10 questionsHide questions10 questions
- Q1Explain the meaning of the term 'statistics' in its plural and singular senses, giving one standard definition of each.Free
- Q2Trace briefly the origin and growth of statistics, and name its two main modern branches.Free
- Q3State and explain the main characteristics of statistics (as data).Free
- Q4"A single figure such as 'the average income of a family is ₹25,000 per month' cannot by itself be called statistics." Do you agree? Justify…Preview
- Q5Describe the scope of statistics and explain any five functions it performs.Preview
- Q6Explain the importance of statistics in business and commerce.Preview
- Q7"Statistics is a science with limitations; it can be misused as easily as it can be used." Discuss the main limitations of statistics.Preview
- Q8Explain the relationship between statistics and (i) mathematics and (ii) economics.Preview
- Q9What is a statistical survey? Explain briefly the main steps involved in conducting a statistical survey.Preview
- Q10Distinguish between a census (complete enumeration) and a sample survey, and state one situation where each is preferable.Preview