Practical Guidance for Bayesian Inference in Astronomy

Understand

In the last two decades, Bayesian inference has become commonplace in astronomy.

• At the same time, the choice of algorithms, terminology, notation, and interpretation of Bayesian inference varies from one sub-field of astronomy to the next, which can lead to confusion to both those learning and those familiar with Bayesian statistics.
• Moreover, the choice varies between the astronomy and statistics literature, too.
• In this paper, our goal is two-fold: (1) provide a reference that consolidates and clarifies terminology and notation across disciplines, and (2) outline practical guidance for Bayesian inference in astronomy.