MHB Is Z-Score Testing Appropriate for Comparing These Population Proportions?

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Z-score testing is appropriate for comparing population proportions, as it is the standard method for this type of analysis. The discussion highlights a sample population of 128 individuals across two age groups compared to larger US population figures. While z-scores can effectively assess similarity, some participants suggest exploring chi-square analysis for additional insights, although challenges in implementation were noted. The conversation emphasizes the importance of selecting the right statistical test for accurate comparisons. Ultimately, z-tests remain a valid choice for this analysis.
chadwae
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So I have a sample population made up of:

59 people 20-24 years old
69 people 25-29 years old
TOTAL 128

to compare to the US population which was:

21,585,999 people 20-24 years old
21,101,849 people 20-29 years old

Then I have in the same groups

35 males (US pop 21,649,767)
93 females (US pop 21,038,081)

I used z-scores to compare them for similarity, but I'm thinking there may be a better way to do it. I thought maybe of a chi-square analysis for each, but I can't get that to work... Is z-score testing appropriate here or is there a better way?
 
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chadwae said:
So I have a sample population made up of:

59 people 20-24 years old
69 people 25-29 years old
TOTAL 128

to compare to the US population which was:

21,585,999 people 20-24 years old
21,101,849 people 20-29 years old

Then I have in the same groups

35 males (US pop 21,649,767)
93 females (US pop 21,038,081)

I used z-scores to compare them for similarity, but I'm thinking there may be a better way to do it. I thought maybe of a chi-square analysis for each, but I can't get that to work... Is z-score testing appropriate here or is there a better way?

Hi chadwae! Welcome to MHB! ;)

We're comparing 2 population proportions here.
The standard test for that is a z-test.
See for instance here or here.
 
First trick I learned this one a long time ago and have used it to entertain and amuse young kids. Ask your friend to write down a three-digit number without showing it to you. Then ask him or her to rearrange the digits to form a new three-digit number. After that, write whichever is the larger number above the other number, and then subtract the smaller from the larger, making sure that you don't see any of the numbers. Then ask the young "victim" to tell you any two of the digits of the...

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