Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

26. What if you're missing a standard deviation and only a similar summary statistic is given?

Data extraction tips for meta-analysis - tip 26

Graphic image of two stick figure people with traffic light style heads

Here's a tip...

You can derive estimates of standard deviations from other reported summary data, but be aware of the assumptions underlying your estimates.

To find out more, download the pdf

Dr Kathy Taylor teaches data extraction in Meta-analysis. This is a short course that is also available as part of our MSc in Evidence-Based Health Care, MSc in EBHC Medical Statistics, and MSc in EBHC Systematic Reviews.

Follow updates on this blog and related news, and to find out about other examples of statistics being made more broadly accessible on Twitter @dataextips