ABSTRACT
Mean, median, standard deviation, histogram, boxplot: Most of these parameters and graphics constitute the “basics of statistics.” Their widespread use arises from the fact that with a few numbers and visual representations, they can simply and fairly comprehensively show how a variable is distributed, even if this involves thousands or millions of observations. Because they are the foundations, these analyses must be performed carefully, taking ample time to note and interpret each result. Numbers and percentages must be systematically set against the a priori representation that the statistician has of the data. When there is a discrepancy, it is essential to understand why and to check that there is no obvious error.
