Sample size and decision rules

Specify precision thresholds and stopping

Justify precision or the complete decision rule, including any multistage stopping. A nominal one-sample test does not account automatically for uncertainty or changes in a historical benchmark.

Flow diagram

Sample size and decision rulesF1.S1Define information objectiveF1.S2Specify success and decisioncriteriaF1.S3Evaluate size or precisionscenariosF1.S4Address multiple decisionsF1.S5Specify stopping rules if usedF1.S6Document verified calculation andrationaleF1.N1Size and precision scenariosScenarioOutcome/modelBenchmark/effectAssumptionsPower/precisionN/eventsSourceF1.N2Decision registerDecisionTimingRuleError controlAuthorityActionF1.N3Decision specificationF1.N4Assumption evidenceF1.S0 Start flowSample size and decision rulesF1.S999 End flowEnd flow

Steps

Define information objective

Choose estimation precision or a justified benchmark comparison.

Specify success and decision criteria

Define outcome scale, hypotheses if used and testing direction.

Evaluate size or precision scenarios

Record effect, variability or event assumptions, attrition and follow-up.

Address multiple decisions

Specify endpoint families, repeated looks and error control where applicable.

Specify stopping rules if used

Prespecify safety, futility or efficacy review and decision authority.

Document verified calculation and rationale

Record method, software/version and supporting evidence.

Sample size and decision rules

End flow

Tables and supporting information

Size and precision scenarios

Size and precision scenariosScenarioOutcome/modelBenchmark/effectAssumptionsPower/precisionN/eventsSource

Enter verified calculations; no binomial model is assumed automatically.

Decision register

Decision registerDecisionTimingRuleError controlAuthorityAction

Leave rules blank until justified.

Decision specification

Define mathematical hypotheses or precision criteria and symbols for the selected outcome and comparison.

Assumption evidence

Attach sources for benchmark, variability and feasibility assumptions.

Sources