What is the primary purpose of hypothesis testing?

The primary purpose of hypothesis testing is to evaluate claims or hypotheses about a population based on sample data. It provides a systematic method for making inferences or decisions about population parameters by determining whether there is enough statistical evidence to support or reject a specific claim. This process includes formulating a null hypothesis and an alternative hypothesis, calculating test statistics, and ultimately deciding whether to accept or reject the null hypothesis based on the results obtained.

Hypothesis testing is fundamental in various fields such as business, science, and social studies, as it allows researchers and analysts to draw conclusions about larger populations from smaller samples, thereby enabling informed decision-making based on empirical evidence. This methodological approach is integral to validating assumptions or evaluating new theories, making it a cornerstone of statistical analysis.