Biostatistics: practice question

A PSM question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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PSM · Biostatistics

Sample item

What is the null hypothesis in a clinical comparison?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

B. Assumption of no effect or difference

The null hypothesis commonly states no difference between groups; statistical tests assess whether observed data are sufficiently inconsistent with it.

Option by option

  • A. Claim that treatment definitely works

    Effect claim is alternative hypothesis.

  • B. Assumption of no effect or difference (correct)

    Correct: no-effect assumption is the null.

  • C. Observed result after analysis

    Observed result is evidence, not null.

  • D. Probability of Type II error

    Type II error is a testing risk.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

More PSM questions

Questions about this PSM question

What is the answer to this PSM question?

The best answer is B, Assumption of no effect or difference. The null hypothesis commonly states no difference between groups; statistical tests assess whether observed data are sufficiently inconsistent with it.

Why is "Claim that treatment definitely works" not the answer?

Effect claim is alternative hypothesis.

Why is "Observed result after analysis" not the answer?

Observed result is evidence, not null.

Why is "Probability of Type II error" not the answer?

Type II error is a testing risk.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Biostatistics in PSM. The correct option holds because: Correct: no-effect assumption is the null.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Biostatistics?

Practise biostatistics with small calculations until sensitivity, predictive values and risk measures are automatic. Then use the flashcards and the other PSM questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.