The first step in assessing statistical significance is defining the question you want to answer and stating your hypothesis. The hypothesis is a statement about your experimental data and the differences that may be occurring in the population. For any experiment, there is both a null and an alternative hypothesis. Generally, you will be comparing two groups to see if they are the same or different.  The null hypothesis (H0) generally states that there is no difference between your two data sets. For example: Students who read the material before class do not get better final grades. The alternative hypothesis (Ha) is the opposite of the null hypothesis and is the statement you are trying to support with your experimental data. For example: Students who read the material before class do get better final grades. The significance level (also called alpha) is the threshold that you set to determine significance. If your p-value is less than or equal to the set significance level, the data is considered statistically significant.  As a general rule, the significance level (or alpha) is commonly set to 0.05, meaning that the probability of observing the differences seen in your data by chance is just 5%. A higher confidence level (and, thus, a lower p-value) means the results are more significant. If you want higher confidence in your data, set the p-value lower to 0.01. Lower p-values are generally used in manufacturing when detecting flaws in products. It is very important to have high confidence that every part will work exactly as it is supposed to. For most hypothesis-driven experiments, a significance level of 0.05 is acceptable. One of the assumptions a t-test makes is that your data is distributed normally. A normal distribution of data forms a bell curve with the majority of the samples falling in the middle. The t-test is a mathematical test to see if your data falls outside of the normal distribution, either above or below, in the “tails” of the curve.  A one-tailed test is more powerful than a two-tailed test, as it examines the potential of a relationship in a single direction (such as above the control group), while a two-tailed test examines the potential of a relationship in both directions (such as either above or below the control group).  If you are not sure if your data will be above or below the control group, use a two-tailed test. This allows you to test for significance in either direction. If you know which direction you are expecting your data to trend towards, use a one-tailed test. In the given example, you expect the student’s grades to improve; therefore, you will use a one-tailed test. The power of a test is the probability of observing the expected result, given a specific sample size. The common threshold for power (or β) is 80%. A power analysis can be a bit tricky without some preliminary data, as you need some information about your expected means between each group and their standard deviations. Use a power analysis calculator online to determine the optimal sample size for your data.  Researchers usually do a small pilot study to inform their power analysis and determine the sample size needed for a larger, comprehensive study. If you do not have the means to do a complex pilot study, make some estimations about possible means based on reading the literature and studies that other individuals may have performed. This will give you a good place to start for sample size.

Summary: Define your hypotheses. Set the significance level to determine how unusual your data must be before it can be considered significant. Decide to use a one-tailed or two-tailed test. Determine sample size with a power analysis.


This doesn't only apply to work—also avoid challenging sensory situations, people who make you feel on edge, or activities that are difficult for you. You're dealing with loud and painful sounds—you don't need anything else on your plate. This can help you get into a zone and pass the time quickly. Try starting a fun project you've been looking forward to, talking with people (in person or online) who share your interest, or researching your favorite things. Think of the exercises that have been most helpful to you, and spend 5 or 10 minutes focusing on them. Whenever you find your thoughts wandering back to worries, gently guide them back to your exercise. Here are some ideas to try:   Meditation EMDR techniques Imagery  Engaging the senses (besides hearing) Progressive muscle relaxation Breathing Go to people who make you feel less stressed, and focus on them. Ask them about their day, or what is on their mind. If they're doing something, see if you can help. They can help distract you and make you feel a bit better. For disorders such as panic attacks, you may have been described anti-anxiety medications such as Xanax. Use this if you feel that a panic attack or severe stress is imminent. A small or moderate dosage may return you to a neutral mood. This technique helps some people de-stress. Remind yourself that you are capable and resourceful. Power pose in front of the mirror, give yourself a smile, and remind yourself that while the situation is tough, you're tough too.   "I'm relaxed and feeling peaceful. While fireworks startle me, I can breathe deeply and go back to feeling calm. I think I'll have a good night's sleep tonight." "I'm doing my best in a difficult situation. It stresses me out a little, and I'm allowed to be stressed. I know I'll be okay in the end." "I'm a resourceful woman. I've employed several noise-reduction techniques, and if I need more, I can get more. I can ride out this night and enjoy the fireworks." "I'm a strong person. Fireworks will not ruin my night." If you're really feeling stressed, find a person who has been helpful to you in the past, and say "I'm having a rough time. Is now a good time to talk?" If so, they may be able to reassure you and help you feel a little better.  If you don't have anyone available, some apps like Wysa can also help you cope with anxiety and stress. You can't manage your neighbors' fireworks, but you can play a role in your family's fun. Having power over the fireworks, and knowing when they will go off, can help you feel less anxious about them. Here are ways to achieve this at any age:   Help your family buy fireworks that look interesting to you. Choose which fireworks to set off next Light the firework Give the countdown for a loved one to light the next firework While the noise may not be fun, the lights can be interesting to watch. Check out the bright colors and various shapes. Discuss them with your family members if your ear protection allows. Fireworks have their drawbacks, and they also have their beauty.

Summary: Stay away from stressful activities for the day. Harness the power of your special interests. Use relaxation techniques. Spend time with people who make you happy. Have medication ready as a last resort, if needed. Try positive self-talk. Talk about your feelings to a good listener. Take control. Enjoy the pretty lights.


A cord clip can help prevent a tangled mess of cords and wires. You can purchase cord clips at your local hardware store or online. Try affixing the cord clips to the back of a table or desk. Then position the electrical cord in the clips. You can purchase a surge protector that also houses unsightly electrical cords. Try using a surge protector with cord storage. Mount it on the wall under a television, computer, or other appliance that is wrought with unsightly cords. If you can’t hide the cords behind another object in the room, try wrapping it in a spiral cord cover. You can purchase electrical cord covers online or at your local hardware store. Choose a cover that matches your walls or floor, or buy a paintable cover for a custom fit. If you need to hide electrical cords on your walls, try disguising them with a flat wire covering. Once you have placed the flat wire covering over the electrical cord, attach the covering to the wall. Paint over the flat wire covering to help the cord and its covering blend into the wall. If you need to corral multiple electrical cords, try attaching them together with a binder clip. You can then hang the binder clip on a nail, screw or hook that is in an inconspicuous place, like the back of a piece of furniture.
Summary: Try cord clips. Use a surge protector that disguises cords. Try a cord cover. Try painting over a flat wire covering. Keep cords out of sight with a binder clip.