Making Sense of Numbers

This text invites students to develop an in-depth understanding of core concepts in research methods, clearly guides them through real-life examples, and offers tools needed for the development of strong analytical skills highly valued in the labor market. – Maria Aysa-Lastra

This an incredibly useful textbook, showing students how to interpret others’ quantitative research, think about quantitative research of their own, and communicate the findings of that research. I learned several great tips myself on writing effectively about quantitative research findings!

– Susan A. DumaisMaking Sense of Numbers is an excellent companion for those learning to navigate the world of quantitative research. – Marc Isaacson

Jane E. Miller is a Professor at the Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy at Rutgers University, where she is Lead Instructor for the undergraduate Research Methods course and instructor for the undergraduate Honors Research Program. She also teaches graduate courses on data visualization and quantitative research. She was previously Faculty Director of Project L/EARN – an intensive social science research training program for undergraduates from historically under-represented groups.

Dr. Miller has written two other books: The Chicago Guide to Writing about Numbers and The Chicago Guide to Writing about Multivariate Analysis (University of Chicago Press) – both in their second editions, and also available in Chinese translation (Xinhua Publishing). She has also authored a series of articles in teaching and research journals on how to communicate about quantitative research. Dr. Miller’s research interests include relationships between poverty, child health, health insurance, and access to health care. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Economics from Williams College and her M.A. and PhD in Demography from the University of Pennsylvania.