To do nursing research effectively requires an understanding of fundamental principles of statistical methods. In this article, some key statistical methods which are commonly used in nursing research are identified and summarized.

Ninety-two original articles from the Journal of Korean Academy of Nursing Administration were reviewed. Statistical methods were classified and summarized for usage in research and occurrence of common errors.

Among the original articles reviewed, 58 statistical usages contained errors. Most errors were found in linear regression analysis, Pearson correlation analysis, and chi-square test. From the detection of statistical errors in usage, suggestions for appropriate statistical methods were made.

In order to improve validity of original articles in the Journal of Korean Academy of Nursing Administration, clearly stated statistical usage and close editorial attention to statistical methods are needed. Understanding statistical methods is part of the process that researchers must use to determine both quality and usefulness of the research. Research findings will be used to guide nursing practice and reduce uncertainty in decision making. However, to understand how to interpret research results, it is important to be able to understand basic statistical concepts. Researchers should also choose statistical methods that match their purposes.