In quantitative research, inferential statistics are numerical values that enable a researcher to reach conclusions that extend beyond the immediate data alone. Which inferential statistic tests the differences among three or more groups?

Choice A reason: The t-test is used to compare the means of two groups. It is not suitable for analyzing differences among three or more groups, as it increases the risk of Type I error when used repeatedly. Choice B reason: Pearson’s r correlation measures the strength and direction of a linear relationship between two variables. It does not test group differences. Choice C reason: Analysis of variance (ANOVA) is the appropriate statistical test for comparing means across three or more groups. It determines whether there are statistically significant differences among group means and controls for error rates. Choice D reason: Probability is a general concept in statistics and not a specific inferential test. It underlies statistical reasoning but does not directly test group differences.