With an analytical approach that emphasizes concepts and comprehension, Data Matters provides a crucial introduction to statistics by preparing readers to think critically about the most common statistics found in the natural and social sciences. Real data and events taken from the daily news media bring relevance to the subject and turn the general reader into a critical and capable consumer of everyday statistics. With its pleasant, conversational style, Data Matters engages and interests readers while it covers the basics and lays a foundation for further study in statistics.