Applied Statistics Using SPSS, STATISTICA, MATLAB and R - Practical

In this review of Applied Statistics Using SPSS, STATISTICA, MATLAB and R the reviewer finds a textbook aimed at students and practitioners who want a concise but mathematically sound guide to real-data analysis across multiple tools. The single biggest reason to buy is the book's emphasis on computer applications: it walks through statistical concepts while showing how to implement them in SPSS, STATISTICA, MATLAB and the newly included R, making it useful for courses and self-study where hands-on work with real datasets matters.

Key Features

• Multi-software approach: Demonstrates how the same statistical procedures are implemented in SPSS, STATISTICA, MATLAB and R so readers can apply methods with the tool they already use.
• Concise mathematical treatment: Presents mathematical detail that supports understanding without overwhelming readers, useful for those who need rigor alongside application.
• Emphasis on real datasets: Uses practical examples and data-driven exercises to develop applied skills rather than focusing solely on theory.
• Revised second edition: Incorporates improvements and user feedback since the first edition, reflecting classroom-tested refinements.
• R included as a free tool: Adds R coverage so readers can practice with mature, freely available software as an alternative to commercial packages.

Who It's For

This book fits advanced undergraduates, graduate students and applied researchers who need a compact reference that links statistical theory to implementation in multiple software environments. It is particularly useful for instructors who teach applied statistics labs and for professionals transitioning between SPSS, STATISTICA, MATLAB and R.

Those seeking a beginner's introduction with step-by-step handholding for absolute novices or a deep theoretical monograph on mathematical statistics should look elsewhere; the text assumes some familiarity with basic statistics and with using statistical software.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Practical cross-platform examples make it easy to reproduce analyses in different software.
• Concise but rigorous explanations help bridge theory and practice for applied work.
• Inclusion of R expands accessibility by offering a free, mature implementation option.

Cons

• Not a beginner's step-by-step tutorial; readers need some prior statistical knowledge.

Specifications

Our Verdict

Applied Statistics Using SPSS, STATISTICA, MATLAB and R is a well-focused, classroom-tested resource for readers who want to learn applied statistical methods and how to run them across multiple software platforms. Its concise mathematical explanations and practical examples make it good value for students and practitioners who prefer a tool-oriented approach rather than a purely theoretical textbook.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the book include R?
Yes, the second edition explicitly adds R as an application tool alongside SPSS, STATISTICA and MATLAB.

Is this suitable for complete beginners?
The book assumes some prior exposure to basic statistics; true beginners may need an introductory text first.

Are there real-data examples?
Yes, the text emphasizes computer applications to real datasets and uses examples to illustrate methods.