4.5.B—Interpret the p-value of a hypothesis test for a population mean or population mean difference

Interpret the p-value of a hypothesis test for a population mean or population mean difference.

• The p-value is the probability of obtaining a test statistic as extreme or more extreme than the test statistic that was observed (i.e., in the direction of the alternative hypothesis) given that the null hypothesis is true. An interpretation of the p-value of a hypothesis test for a population mean or population mean difference should include a statement that the p-value is computed by assuming that the null hypothesis is true (i.e., by assuming that the population mean is equal to the particular value stated in the null hypothesis in context).