Which statistical techniques are aimed at making inferences or predictions about a population from sample data?

Inferential statistics are specifically designed for making inferences or predictions about a larger population based on data collected from a representative sample. The primary focus of inferential statistics is to draw conclusions beyond the immediate data available. This includes estimating population parameters, testing hypotheses, and making predictions. Techniques such as confidence intervals and significance tests are common within this framework, enabling researchers to determine if their sample findings can be generalized to the broader population with a specified level of confidence.

Descriptive statistics, on the other hand, are used to summarize and describe the main features of a data set without making predictions or inferences about the wider population. They provide simple summaries through measures such as mean, median, and standard deviation.

Quantitative analysis refers to the broader process of using statistical methods and mathematical models to analyze numerical data. While it may involve both descriptive and inferential statistics, it does not specifically focus on making inferences from samples.

Comparative statistics generally involve comparing two or more data sets or groups rather than focusing specifically on making predictions or inferences about a population.