Have you ever thought, “I need to do my statistics homework”, while numbers and formulas are rushing by you in the ocean? There are others who feel the same way clicking here. Statistical learning is akin to sailing into uncharted waters. It’s thrilling but frightening. Discoveries and confusion are lurking under the surface.

Statisticians can help you with this. Deciphering ancient runes is similar. Some terms, like “standard deviation”, “regression analysis” and “probability distributes”, may require clarification. Each language can be learnt. We will be able to navigate the seas by focusing on immersion, practicing regularly, and not fearing mistakes. The gradual familiarization of one concept at time will transform babbles into poetry.

This is the navigation challenge. The purpose of statistics is to understand numbers. Compass helps interpret data. Compasses require a great deal of effort to read. We often go in circles without knowing where we are going. The practice will help. The practice of applying our knowledge to real life challenges allows us to identify patterns. When theory is combined with practice, abstract concepts become useful.

Remember those squalls of self-doubt. Sometimes, we can feel drowning. Especially when the development is gradual and we compare ourselves to other people. The race of learning is not the same as a game. It’s fine to float while enjoying the view. Asking for support from your tutor, other students, or online sources shows strength, not weakness. It’s a lifebuoy to prevent us from sinking in solitude.

The island of opportunity is hidden within the problems. Statistics’ brilliance lies in its ubiquitous use, whether it be in news or sports, corporate product decisions or government policy. This helps to ground our learning by putting it into practice in real-life situations. It turns a topic from a jumble of numbers into something that can be interpreted and a worldview.

Statistical learning is about more than just the content. This is the journey of discovery. Keep in mind that everyone was lost once. We can navigate the waves and plan our courses with persistence, curiosity and a little assistance from our friends.