07 · FEMETRIC REFERENCE
Reading Research
Study design, estimates, confidence intervals and limits—without an evidence score.LAST REVIEWED 2026-09-13Start with the question
Identify the population, intervention, comparator and outcome. Then check randomization, blinding, duration, attrition, prespecified endpoints and funding.
Estimate before p-value
Look at effect size and confidence interval before asking whether a threshold was crossed. A narrow interval can indicate greater precision; a wide interval often signals substantial uncertainty.
Applicability
A statistically clear result may still have limited relevance outside the enrolled population, tested formulation or study duration. Preclinical findings and biomarker changes do not automatically establish patient outcomes.
Primary and authoritative context
NCBI BookshelfConfidence intervals and p-valuesReviewed 2026-09-13NCBI BookshelfClinical research glossaryReviewed 2026-09-13NEXT RESEARCH ACTION