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Researchers must clearly distinguish between planned and exploratory analyses in their reports to avoid misleading conclusions. Conducting multiple unplanned exploratory analyses increases the probability of finding patterns that occur purely by chance, raising the risk of a Type $$1$$ error. Consequently, exploratory findings must be treated with caution and replicated in subsequent studies; however, if unexpected interesting relationships are found, researchers should explicitly explain in their report that they might be worthy of additional research.

Differentiating Planned and Exploratory Analyses

What is the primary risk associated with conducting multiple unplanned exploratory analyses in a research study?

If a researcher discovers an interesting, unexpected relationship during an exploratory analysis, they should present it as a planned analysis in their research report to make the finding appear more robust.

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