Abstract
We recently developed a simple and general sequential sampling method for testing null hypotheses, the independent segments procedure (ISP; Miller & Ulrich, 2021). In this reply, we discuss the comments of Erdfelder and Schnuerch (2021) and Lakens (2021), who consider alternative methods such as the sequential probability ratio test (SPRT) and the group sequential design (GSD), respectively. We evaluate the pros and cons of these alternatives and conclude that the ISP does have several advantages over these other methods, especially for psychological research. All of these sequential methods can save research resources because smaller sample sizes are required compared to standard nonsequential methods, so it seems appropriate for researchers to choose froma variety of sequentialmethods based on the practical requirements of their research.
Translational Abstract
We recently developed a novel sequential sampling method, the independent segments procedure (ISP), to test statistical null hypotheses. This article compares ISP with two previous alternative methods: the sequential probability ratio test (SPRT) and the group sequential design (GSD). Each of the three methods is suitable for saving research resources because all require smaller sample sizes than standard inferential statistical methods. This article compares the advantages and disadvantages of these three methods, highlighting situations in which each would be more appropriate than the others. Therefore, this article may help researchers determine the most appropriate sequential sampling procedure for their particular application.