How to Do a Chi-Square Test With a Ti-83

A nonparametric statistical test lets you observe non-number, classificatory data.

The Chi-Square Test is used to test the difference between two or more actual samples or a given sample and a hypothetical one. As a major nonparametric test, Chi Square also allows you to organize and test data that has been recorded nominally, as in classifications such as gender. The basic Chi Square, x2² computational formula is x2² = ' (observed frequency - expected frequency)2 ² / expected frequency, or x2 ²= ' (Fo - Fe)2² / Fe.

Instructions

1. Turn the TI-83 calculator on.

2. Enter your first list or matrix of data values. Press the "2nd" button followed by the "MATRIX" key and then the right arrow button twice. This will bring you to the EDIT menu.

3. Highlight "1:[A]" and then enter the number of rows of your Chi-Square data followed by the "ENTER" key. Enter the number of columns of your Chi-Square data followed by the "ENTER" key. For a data set of 2 rows in 3 columns, for example, your screen will look like the following:

   MATRIX [A] 2 x 3

4. Enter your first piece of data for Matrix [A] and press "ENTER." Continue with your data entry, pressing "ENTER" after every number. When finished, press "2nd" button and then the "MATRIX" button and enter your data for Matrix [B].

5. Type in [A] for the Observed data and [B] for the Expected. Click on "Calculate" and "ENTER." The calculator will return a Chi-Square value, x2, and a p-value.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember, that your null hypothesis is that there is no association between the variables in the rows and columns, or between those of Matrix A and Matrix B.

• The alternative hypothesis is that the variables are related.

• After you have entered your data, you can click "Draw" and "ENTER" to obtain a graph of your results, with x2 and p values under the graph.

• Make sure the data lists are empty before you begin any calculation process.

References

• "TI-83 Graphing Calculator Guide for Moore and McCabe's Introduction to the Practice of Statistics"; David K. Neal; 2005
• Oklahoma State University; Research Design in Occupational Education; Module 7 - Chi Square; James P. Key; 1997
• Christian Brothers University; Statistics with the TI-83 Plus (and Silver Edition); W. Schrein
• "Texas Instruments: TI-83 Texas Instruments Graphing Calculator Guidebook"; 2001
• Key Curriculum Press; Chi-Square Tests: Generating a Chi-Square Distribution