Write the primary question first. Define the smallest effect worth acting on. Choose the model that answers that question once (t-test, ANOVA, chi-square, regression). Fix alpha and power up front. If you must test multiple things, protect alpha (planned contrasts, Holm/FDR). Keep data tidy: one row per unit, clear variable names, human-readable labels. Preflight with descriptives; if Ns, means, or SDs are off, stop. Report effect sizes with intervals. Visualize residuals and assumptions with intent, not ritual. End every analysis with a decision sentence: “Given X, we will do Y.” Stats aren’t a ceremony. They’re a way to move.
