The theory and practice of statistics, upgraded and made easy to understand

The academic environment of the 21st century is rapidly changing, and especially with the advent of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the importance of research design and data analysis is increasingly highlighted.
When you first start learning statistical thinking and research methodology, you might wonder, "Why should I learn this?" and feel overwhelmed by the need to understand complex equations and formulas.
However, knowing and using equations goes beyond simply solving problems and greatly helps improve logical thinking and problem-solving skills.

This kind of logical thinking is useful not only in academic research but also in everyday life, helping us analyze complex problems and make optimal decisions.
Analyzing data, identifying patterns, and predicting the future to make better choices—this is the ultimate goal of learning statistical thinking and research methodology.
Accordingly, it is essential for researchers and students to learn statistical thinking and systematic research methodology.
This textbook, "Statistical Thinking and Research Methodology," is designed to meet these contemporary demands by providing an academic foundation while also fostering practical research capabilities.

This third revised edition has been supplemented and strengthened to substantially support readers' learning and research.
The content has been updated to reflect the latest trends in academic research and statistics, providing readers with insights they can apply immediately in their daily lives.

Appendices and examples have been strengthened to systematically guide the entire research process, from writing a research plan, collecting and analyzing data, to writing a paper.
Newly added appendices include a journal of team-based project-based learning topic selection, and learning notes using the WSQ (Watch, Summarize, Question) strategy.
Additionally, we added practical materials and explanations for data analysis and visualization, allowing learners to experience actual research design and analysis.

Each chapter is structured with study tips and practical examples so that readers can learn on their own and apply the material directly to their own research.
This textbook provides fundamental statistical and research methodology knowledge applicable to a variety of academic fields, and is designed to foster data-driven decision-making skills based on this foundation.

This revised edition is designed to provide practical value to everyone, from undergraduates seeking to learn the fundamentals of research to graduate students and researchers aiming for advanced research design and paper writing.
I sincerely hope that this textbook will enable readers to solve problems based on statistical thinking, design evidence-based research, and write high-quality papers.