The data in the file named Fast100 were collected by D. L. Green & Associates. To aid the investment firm in locating appropriate investments for its clients, Sandra Williams, an assistant client manager, put together a database on 100 fast-growing companies. The database consists of data on eight variables for each of the 100 companies. Note that in some cases data are not available.

A code of –99 has been used to signify missing data.

These data will have to be omitted from any calculations.

a. Select the variable Sales. Develop a frequency distribution and histogram for Sales.

b. Compute the mean, median, and standard deviation for the Sales variable.

c. Determine the interquartile range for the Sales variable.

d. Construct a box and whisker plot for the Sales variable. Identify any outliers. Discard the outliers and recalculate the measures in part b.

e. Each year, a goal is set for sales. Next year’s goal will be to have average sales that are at this year’s 65th percentile. Identify next year’s sales goal.