Econometrics is the study of economic metrics and measurements. Theoretical econometrics concerns concepts, while applied econometrics uses metrics to study trends and outcomes. It can benefit individuals in budget development and requires extensive education for professionals.
The term econometrics was coined to describe the study of metrics related to economics or economic theory in general. Theoretical econometrics concerns the concepts, ideals and standards that surround economic measures. Applied econometrics, on the other hand, is about using economic metrics and measurements in a functional way. This could include studying economic benchmarks over a period of time to uncover trends or analyzing a set of specific metrics across multiple markets to determine likely outcomes under a given set of circumstances. Applied econometrics allows governments, financial institutions and businesses to determine production requirements, project future needs and align with emerging trends.
Although the definition of applied econometrics seems complex, its basic concept is quite simple. Metrics are anything that can be objectively measured and quantified. In economics, this might include a country’s gross national product, average per capita income, or average small business debt.
Applied econometrics looks at these metrics and discovers what they mean for governments, businesses, and economic systems. They can then make policy or process changes to achieve a positive outcome or lessen the impact of a predictable negative event or condition. For example, an applied econometrician might compare a country’s unemployment rate and its median household income over a five-year period. If he or she finds, as is likely, that household income declines as the unemployment rate rises, he or she can advise government policymakers to consider job creation acts to reduce the unemployment rate and increase the family income.
Studying and performing applied econometrics at high levels can be quite involved. Several factors must be constantly evaluated, and professionals must take care to consider the data completely and objectively. A career in applied econometrics is likely to require extensive education and strong competence in subjects such as statistics and probability.
Individuals, however, can benefit from the use of applied econometrics in their personal lives, mainly because it affects budget development. For example, a family might start looking at how they spend their income. It can collect credit card statements, utility bills, and other such documents, and then sort expenses by type. This can include living necessities such as mortgages and utilities, entertainment expenses such as dining out and going to the movies, and medical expenses such as insurance and prescription costs.
Each of these numbers is a personal economic metric. By comparing these metrics year over year, householders can see where money is being spent. This, in turn, allows them to make informed decisions about where spending cuts could be made.
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