This text shows consumers of research how to read, understand, and critically evaluate the statistical information and research results contained in technical research reports. The text is also useful for applied researchers who need advice on how to analyze their own data and summarize their empirical findings. Students in education and other disciplines need to learn how to interpret and use statistics and research, but often they do not have any way to begin this process. This text clearly and methodically presents basic statistical and research concepts and illustrates how to employ them in making sound educational decisions. Excerpts from more than 500 recent research articles are presented, analyzed, and discussed to illustrate concepts, while numerous cases, terms and review questions help guide the discussion.