Statistics is the science that deals with the collection, classification, analysis, and interpretation of numerical facts or data, and that, by use of mathematical theories of probability, imposes order and regularity on aggregates of more or less disparate elements. Statisticians decide what information is valid and reliable and generate models that yield reliable predictions. They often help search for clues to the solution of a scientific mystery and keep investigators from being misled by false impressions by weeding out lurking variables and determining if variables are confounded. Statisticians work in a variety of fields, including agriculture, astronomy, animal health, biostatistics, defense, ecology, economics, education, engineering, epidemiology, finance, forestry, genetics, geography, government, history, insurance, law, manufacturing, marketing, pharmacology, physics, psychology, public health, quality improvement, risk assessment, sociology, space science, and sports.
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