Perhaps, you have decided to take up applied statistics as your degree in college. While studying this subject is your passion, you are probably stressed out about the coursework. It can be a rewarding journey if you enjoy and understand mathematical formulas and numbers.
You get to plan the collection, management, analysis, and interpretation of data. In applied statistics, you can identify problems and present solutions.
Of course, applied statistics professionals can work in almost all industries. For example, you can work in the engineering, healthcare, education, computing, and artificial intelligence industries.
However, the journey to get there can be challenging. You need to spend a few hours every day going through what was taught in class. Similarly, you should ensure to take enough breaks to have a clear mind when solving data theories. This blog discusses a few tips to help you study.
#1. Brush Up on Mathematical Knowledge
Irrespective of whether you want an applied statistics master’s degree or a regular statistics graduate degree, you need to review your mathematical knowledge before applying.
Did you know that mathematics can be a perishable skill if you do not brush up on the concept regularly? That means you need to keep practicing probability, algebra, and more while you wait to get into college.
According to Michigan Tech University, the admission requirements often include knowledge of calculus and linear algebra with a strong background in mathematics. Keith Holliday, a statistics major, stated that a course in applied statistics helped him understand real-world problems. Brushing up on your mathematical knowledge during your free time will help you understand the concepts of applied statistics easily.
#2. Find Study Groups
Sometimes, it is good to struggle alone as it helps you build up a work ethic. However, in applied statistics, you might not succeed on your own. You may want to study alone for an exam, but the stringent coursework will compel you to seek help from others. Did you know that 70% of students prefer study groups as it increases their motivation to study?
Therefore, you need to make friends and get to know your coursemates. Working together will help you finish tough homework assignments and get assistance during complex projects. Remember to ask questions about topics that you are not well-versed in.
They can become your study partners, and you can rely on them to get views on statistical concepts and theories. However, ensure not to get too attached during the collaboration and rely on them for everything.
#3. Manage Your Time Properly
An applied statistics course can be time-consuming. You need to practice statistical problems every day while keeping up with coursework and classes. As a result, you can develop stress which can lead to burnout if you do not manage your time properly. Hence, try to take a break from your studies when you feel exhausted and stressed.
Similarly, procrastinating on assignments and homework can also hamper your career. You need to avoid having an “I will do it later” attitude when you face an assignment that might take multiple hours for you to figure out. It is better to start your projects early as it will give you enough time to get your issues solved.
You need to start studying early if you want good marks in your exams. Doing so will help you be prepared and manage your time for revisions when the exam nears.
Other Tips for Acing Your Master’s Degree in Statistics
Graduate school in statistics can be intimidating and exhausting if you do not follow the aforementioned tips. There is a lot of pressure and anxiety that you might feel during the course. Moreover, you are likely to make mistakes and learn from them.
You can alleviate these mistakes by following these underrated tips when entering graduate school from undergraduate programs:
- Do not skip classes and expect to deal with the course load easily
- Internships and fellowship programs are crucial for your portfolio
- Revisit the fundamentals of statistics like data distributions, variables, etc.
The coursework in statistics master’s degree is far more challenging. Therefore, you need to work extra hard and be consistent with your studies. Try to be detailed in your assignments, finish your homework beforehand, and be overprepared for an exam.
You should take breaks every week and always have a nice meal. Remember, an empty stomach cannot solve problems.
The Bottom Line
Ideally, the median salary of a statistics major is USD 96,280 per year. Moreover, the job outlook is set to increase at a 31% rate. Hence, making it a demanding career option.
You will not find applied statistics hard if you have a passion for data analysis. Ideally, it is the use of calculations and mathematical formulas to understand the outcome of data. You should follow the tips shared throughout the applied or pure statistics courses. All you need to do is practice mathematics, find study groups, and manage your time properly.
Other than that, you can focus on revisiting coursework every day, staying on top of assignments, and having a filling meal. Doing so will help you succeed in class and understand statistical concepts better.
