What is the difference between a narrative interpretation and a statistical interpretation in a diagnostic report, and when is each appropriate?

• A. Narrative interpretation focuses on numbers; statistical interpretation contextualizes results.
• B. Narrative interpretation contextualizes results for families and educators; statistical interpretation emphasizes numerical significance and reliability; both used together.
• C. Only one of them should be used in a diagnostic report.
• D. Statistical interpretation is never appropriate in reports.

Answer: (B)

Combining narrative and statistical interpretation in a diagnostic report gives both meaning and evidence. Narrative interpretation contextualizes results for families and educators, translating scores into clear implications for learning, behavior, and daily functioning, and it recommends supports in accessible language. Statistical interpretation emphasizes numerical significance and reliability, showing how well the data support conclusions—norm-referenced comparisons, measurement precision, and the magnitude and reliability of observed differences. Using both is appropriate because it provides a practical, actionable summary for stakeholders while also demonstrating the rigor behind the conclusions. Relying on only one type can leave either the practical meaning or the data quality unclear, so together they yield a complete, justified diagnostic report.