Statistical science and effective scientific communication*

Modern science increasingly uses sophisticated statistical techniques, yet papers in scientific journals are often defective in identification of methods used and in clear presentation of quantitative conclusions. The omission of essential information, ambiguities and misleading conclusions from ill-chosen methods often escape editorial challenge: referees, usually chosen for expertise in the substantive subject matter, may lack the statistical skill and experience needed for critical assessment. This paper makes proposals that might enable an editor and his referees more readily to detect the need for major revision before publication. Some matters have ethical components in addition to their implications for the advancement of knowledge in many disciplines.