2022. novemberében Sipos Zoltán lett a hónap statisztikusa, a vele készült interjút angol nyelvben alább olvashatják.
What Are The Roles Of A Statistician?
Of course, primarily the best possible execution of the given analysis. In addition, the statistician mostly has a certain supporting role with regard to the data in the possible development of the statistical plan and in the evaluation of the analysis. Preparation, commitment, thirst for knowledge and the ability to learn are important. We mostly work in the background. Perhaps we could be compared to a drummer in a band. Very few people notice when everything is fine, but it is immediately apparent when you are not playing well.
What do you think is the most important thing for a statistician to remember when working with data?
I think there is some level of respect for data, so to speak. They should not be taken lightly. You have to look at them and work with them with great attention and care, because a small mistake on our part can cause even bigger problems in the results. This is really something to keep in mind.
How often do you update your skills and knowledge as a statistician?
Since, on the one hand, it will never be the case that someone knows everything, and on the other hand, new, never-before-seen problems regularly arise, so continuous learning and self-improvement are required in terms of both the methods and the use of statistical programs.
There is a lot of data to analyse, which may seem monotonous to an outsider. How would you stay motivated during this process?
It may seem so, but the monotonous thing is that we always work with numbers. However, the figures, patterns or results may show some similarites. And indeed many times we use the same tools (as in many other professions) to explore things. If things get boring, I draw something for a 1-2 minute break, and since my skills are at the level of an 8-year-old child, mostly only non-figurative things. Or I start singing, that can also cheer me up. Of course, usually only in myself, it’s better for everyone.