Generations of biologists have relied upon this useful book, which presents the basic concepts of statistics lucidly and convincingly. It recognises that students must be aware of when to use the standard techniques and how to apply the results they obtain. The reasoning behind the more important procedures is carefully explained.

Since many biologists do not have a strong mathematical background, the arguments are gauged in terms which can be easily understood by those with only an elementary knowledge of algebra. Unlike many other introductory books, mathematical derivations are avoided and formulae are only used as a convenient shorthand. Although the subject is presented with great simplicity, the coverage is wide and will satisfy the needs of those working in many disciplines.