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Statistics
OVERVIEW: Statistics are used to support a point-of-view or argument, draw conclusions and aid in analysis. The collection and publication of statistics is time consuming. It is not uncommon for statistics to be published one, two, even three years after data has been collected. Using statistics as old as five years is common and acceptable in most cases. 

Anchorage 

Alaska

United States

Some Useful information on Using Statistics

RobertNiles.com
Explains how to calculate mean, median, percent

 Using Statistics 
Provides good examples of how to use statistics and includes a  sample argumentative essay with commentary.

Using Statistics
Purdue University On-line Writing Lab provides guidelines for responsible use of basic statistical information. Covers selecting data relevant to one's argument, and using appropriate visual aids.