Statistical Checklist

Statistical Reporting Checklist

Before submission, authors must complete this checklist and confirm compliance in their cover letter. Manuscripts missing essential items may be returned without review.

Part 1: Study Design & Methods

A. General Information

  • 1.1 Study objectives/hypotheses are clearly stated.
  • 1.2 Study design is identified (e.g., RCT, observational, simulation, meta-analysis).
  • 1.3 Target population and sampling frame are defined.
  • 1.4 Justification for sample size is provided (power analysis, precision, feasibility).
  • 1.5 Eligibility criteria (inclusion/exclusion) are specified.

B. Data Collection & Management

  • 1.6 Data collection procedures are described in detail.
  • 1.7 Methods for handling missing data are reported.
  • 1.8 Any data transformations or recoding are described.
  • 1.9 Process for outlier detection/handling is explained.
  • 1.10 Quality control measures for data entry/collection are noted.

Part 2: Statistical Methods

A. Methods Description

  • 2.1 All statistical methods are listed, including software (name, version).
  • 2.2 For each hypothesis/test, the specific statistical method is named.
  • 2.3 Assumptions of each method are stated and checked.
  • 2.4 Any data-driven model selection procedures are described.
  • 2.5 Methods for handling multiple comparisons are specified.

B. Advanced Methods (if applicable)

  • 2.6 Bayesian analyses: Priors are justified and sensitivity analyses reported.
  • 2.7 Machine learning: Training/test splits, cross-validation, tuning methods are detailed.
  • 2.8 Time-series/Spatial analyses: Dependency structures and models are specified.
  • 2.9 Meta-analysis: Search strategy, inclusion criteria, and heterogeneity tests are provided.
  • 2.10 Structural Equation Modeling: Model specification and fit indices are reported.

Part 3: Results Reporting

A. Descriptive Statistics

  • 3.1 Summary statistics are provided for all analyzed variables.
  • 3.2 Continuous variables: Mean (SD) or median (IQR) as appropriate.
  • 3.3 Categorical variables: Counts and percentages.
  • 3.4 Tables/figures include clear labels, units, and sample sizes.

B. Inferential Statistics

  • 3.5 For each hypothesis test: test statistic, degrees of freedom, exact *p*-value.
  • 3.6 Confidence intervals are provided for key estimates (e.g., 95% CI).
  • 3.7 Effect sizes are reported (Cohen’s *d*, odds ratio, R², etc.).
  • 3.8 Model outputs include parameter estimates and precision measures.
  • 3.9 No statements like "*p* < 0.05" without exact *p*-value.

C. Assumption Checks

  • 3.10 Results of normality, homogeneity, independence checks are reported.
  • 3.11 For regression: multicollinearity diagnostics (VIF) are provided.
  • 3.12 For ANOVA: sphericity, homogeneity of variance tests are noted.

Part 4: Reproducibility & Transparency

A. Data & Code Availability

  • 4.1 Data availability statement is included in manuscript.
  • 4.2 Repository name and DOI/accession number are provided (or reason for restriction).
  • 4.3 Analysis code/scripts are shared (e.g., GitHub, Zenodo).
  • 4.4 README file explains how to reproduce analyses.

B. Pre-registration (if applicable)

  • 4.5 For confirmatory studies: registration ID (OSF, ClinicalTrials.gov) is provided.
  • 4.6 Any deviations from pre-registered plan are explained.

Part 5: Interpretation & Discussion

  • 5.1 Statistical results are interpreted in context of research question.
  • 5.2 Practical significance (effect sizes) is discussed, not just statistical significance.
  • 5.3 Limitations of statistical methods are acknowledged.
  • 5.4 Conclusions are supported by the statistical evidence presented.
  • 5.5 No causal language from correlational/observational designs without justification.

Part 6: Ethical Reporting

  • 6.1 All conducted analyses are reported (no selective outcome reporting).
  • 6.2 No evidence of *p*-hacking, data dredging, or HARKing.
  • 6.3 For randomized trials: CONSORT flowchart is included.
  • 6.4 For observational studies: STROBE checklist is completed.
  • 6.5 For systematic reviews: PRISMA checklist is completed.

 

How to Use This Checklist

  1. Authors: Complete this checklist during manuscript preparation.
  2. Indicate completion in your cover letter: "The Statistical Reporting Checklist has been completed for this submission."
  3. Upload a completed copy as a supplementary file if requested.
  4. Reviewers will use this checklist during evaluation.

References & Further Guidance

Need help? Contact our Statistical Editors at: editor-allstats@journalscinex.com