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Calculating Summary Statistics

Statistics reduce a dataset to information users can interpret.

SELECT
  COUNT(*) AS result_count,
  COUNT(DISTINCT team_name) AS team_count,
  SUM(wins) AS total_wins,
  AVG(wins) AS average_wins,
  MAX(wins) AS highest_wins
FROM team_results;

Choose statistics because they answer a need, not because functions are available. Label values clearly and round averages deliberately.

<p>Average wins:
  <?= number_format((float) $stats["average_wins"], 1) ?>
</p>

Interpretation

A number without context is weak. State what population and timeframe it represents. Do not imply cause from a descriptive statistic.

Check

  • Each statistic has a purpose.
  • Null or empty data is handled.
  • Units and labels are visible.
  • Rounding is consistent.
  • Results are checked manually with a known dataset.
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