<Li> Comparisons of mean squares, along with an F - test...allow testing of a nested sequence of models . </Li> <Li> Closely related to the ANOVA is a linear model fit with coefficient estimates and standard errors ." </Li> <P> In short, ANOVA is a statistical tool used in several ways to develop and confirm an explanation for the observed data . </P> <Ol> <Li> It is computationally elegant and relatively robust against violations of its assumptions . </Li> <Li> ANOVA provides industrial strength (multiple sample comparison) statistical analysis . </Li> <Li> It has been adapted to the analysis of a variety of experimental designs . </Li> </Ol>

Generally an anova test is used when 3 or more variables are compared