Factor Analysis & SEM
What factor analysis & sem means
Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, latent variables and structural equation modelling.
Before you start
Not confident yet? Work through Regression Analysis first.
Worked example
One question from this skill's own question bank, shown with its full working.
Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) is primarily used to:
- Identify the underlying dimensions in a set of observed variables
- Test differences between two group means
- Compute a correlation between two variables
- Randomly assign participants to groups
Working: EFA reduces many correlated items to a smaller number of latent factors without a pre-specified structure.
Curriculum and exam alignment
Curriculum notes are a general guide to where this work normally sits. Always check the syllabus your school or examination body is currently using.
Related skills
Other Multivariate Modelling skills in Advanced Quantitative Research Methods, at the same point in the course.
Other Advanced Quantitative Research Methods topics
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Practise factor analysis & sem
8 questions with a worked answer after every attempt, and a SmartScore that tracks how close you are to mastery.