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

In hypothesis testing, a Type I error is:

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

The answer and the reasoning

B. Rejecting a null hypothesis that is actually true

A Type I (alpha) error is a false positive: you claim an effect that is not there. A Type II (beta) error is a false negative. Power is 1 − beta.

Option by option

  • A. Failing to detect a real difference

    That is also a Type II error.

  • B. Rejecting a null hypothesis that is actually true (correct)

    Correct.

  • C. A mistake in measurement

    Measurement mistakes are bias, not Type I error.

  • D. Accepting a null hypothesis that is actually false

    That is a Type II error.

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.

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Questions about this PSM question

What is the answer to this PSM question?

The best answer is B, Rejecting a null hypothesis that is actually true. A Type I (alpha) error is a false positive: you claim an effect that is not there.

Why is "Failing to detect a real difference" not the answer?

That is also a Type II error.

Why is "A mistake in measurement" not the answer?

Measurement mistakes are bias, not Type I error.

Why is "Accepting a null hypothesis that is actually false" not the answer?

That is a Type II error.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Biostatistics in PSM. A Type II (beta) error is a false negative. Power is 1 − beta.

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.