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Information and IdeasHardComparing two trial arms

Information and Ideas practice question

Results of a trial, by group: Drug: 200 participants, 58% reported improvement Placebo: 200 participants, 41% reported improvement

A researcher claims that a larger share of participants improved on the drug than on the placebo. Which choice most effectively uses data from the table to support the claim?

  1. A. 58% of the 200 drug participants reported improvement, compared with 41% of the 200 placebo participants.Correct
  2. B. 200 participants received the drug.
  3. C. 41% of placebo participants reported improvement, showing that the placebo was effective.
  4. D. Both groups contained the same number of participants.

Answer: A. 58% of the 200 drug participants reported improvement, compared with 41% of the 200 placebo participants.

The claim compares two shares; choice A states both shares side by side.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. 200 participants received the drug.
A group size on its own supports no comparison.
C. 41% of placebo participants reported improvement, showing that the placebo was effective.
This discusses the placebo alone and draws a conclusion the claim isn't about.
D. Both groups contained the same number of participants.
Equal group sizes make the comparison fair, but they don't state the comparison.

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