SPSS output is not an analysis plan
Menus can execute procedures, but they cannot align the question, variables, assumptions, diagnostics, and interpretation.
Menus can execute procedures, but they cannot align the question, variables, assumptions, diagnostics, and interpretation.
Write the decision before opening a dialog
Specify the outcome, estimand, population, predictors, coding, dependence, and planned contrasts first.
Save syntax and transformation logic
A reproducible SPSS workflow should preserve recodes, exclusions, missing-value rules, models, and requested diagnostics.
Trace every reported claim to output
The reported direction, scale, uncertainty, reference group, and limitations should match the final executed analysis, not an earlier run.
Failure modes to check
- Choosing a method because it is familiar rather than because it matches the estimand and data structure.
- Treating assumptions as a generic pass/fail checklist instead of evidence about a specific model.
- Changing the workflow after seeing results without recording the decision or its effect on uncertainty.
- Reporting software output without tracing the claim to final code, diagnostics, and limitations.
Continue the decision path
Explore the related statistical consulting service, or discuss the decision in your own study.
Related decision guides
Methodological note
This guide provides general educational information. The appropriate decision depends on the study question, design, data, evidence, ethics, and institutional requirements.