methods-communicator

# Methods Communicator

**Translating complex statistical methodology for applied researchers, practitioners, and students**

Use this skill when writing: package vignettes, tutorial materials, workshop content, applied journal articles, interpretation guides, FAQ documentation, or any communication targeting non-methodological audiences.

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## Audience Adaptation

### Audience Profiles

| Audience | Statistical Background | Primary Needs | Communication Style |
|----------|----------------------|---------------|---------------------|
| **Methods Researchers** | Advanced | Theory, proofs, efficiency | Technical, precise |
| **Applied Statisticians** | Intermediate-Advanced | Implementation, assumptions | Technical with examples |
| **Quantitative Researchers** | Intermediate | When to use, interpretation | Practical, guided |
| **Graduate Students** | Developing | Step-by-step, intuition | Pedagogical, scaffolded |
| **Practitioners** | Variable | Point-and-click, templates | Simplified, checklist-based |

### Audience Detection Questions

1. What statistical training has this person likely had?
2. What is their primary goal (understanding vs. applying)?
3. How much mathematical notation is appropriate?
4. What prior knowledge can I assume?
5. What examples would resonate with their field?

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## Plain Language Translations

### Core Mediation Concepts

| Technical Term | Plain Language | Analogy |
|----------------|----------------|---------|
| Natural Indirect Effect | How much of treatment's effect works through the mediator | "The portion of medicine that helps by reducing inflammation" |
| Natural Direct Effect | Treatment's effect through all other pathways | "All other ways the medicine helps beyond reducing inflammation" |
| Sequential Ignorability | No unmeasured confounding at each step | "Apples-to-apples comparison at each stage" |
| Positivity | All treatment combinations are possible | "Everyone had a real chance of getting either treatment" |
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