Questions: Which of the following is correct regarding setting the amount of error that a researcher finds acceptable in hypothesis testing: It is difficult to set alpha, so beta is preferable It is difficult to set beta, so alpha is preferable It is easier to set alpha, but beta is preferable It is easier to set beta, but alpha is preferable

The answer is: It is difficult to set beta, so alpha is preferable.

Explanation for each option:

1. It is difficult to set alpha, so beta is preferable:

   • This statement is incorrect. Alpha (α) is the probability of making a Type I error (rejecting a true null hypothesis) and is typically set by the researcher before conducting the test. It is usually set at common levels such as 0.05 or 0.01. Setting alpha is a standard practice and is not considered difficult.

2. It is difficult to set beta, so alpha is preferable:

   • This statement is correct. Beta (β) is the probability of making a Type II error (failing to reject a false null hypothesis). Setting beta is more complex because it depends on several factors, including the effect size, sample size, and the chosen alpha level. Therefore, researchers often set alpha first and then consider beta when designing their studies.

3. It is easier to set alpha, but beta is preferable:

   • This statement is partially correct but misleading. While it is true that setting alpha is easier, beta is not necessarily preferable. Both alpha and beta are important, but alpha is typically set first because it is more straightforward and widely accepted in hypothesis testing.

4. It is easier to set beta, but alpha is preferable:

   • This statement is incorrect. Setting beta is not easier; it is more challenging due to its dependence on various factors. Alpha is easier to set and is commonly used as the primary threshold for hypothesis testing.

In summary, setting alpha is a more straightforward process, and because of the complexities involved in setting beta, alpha is generally preferred in hypothesis testing.