What is the difference between descriptive and inferential statistics?

The main difference between descriptive and inferential statistics lies in their purpose and application. Descriptive statistics focuses on summarizing and describing the features of a specific dataset through calculations like averages and percentages. For example, it might tell you that fifty percent of survey respondents prefer a certain product. In contrast, inferential statistics uses a sample to make predictions or inferences about a larger population. It goes a step further by testing hypotheses and estimating population parameters, allowing researchers to draw conclusions that extend beyond the data at hand.