Statistical significance and averages are two pieces of statistical information that are often presented as evidence in support of researchers' conclusions and teaching recommendations. In this article, I consider interpretation of this information as research evidence for ELT. In simple terms that will be accessible even to readers without any knowledge of statistics, I explain the basic nature of this information with the aim of elucidating what it can and cannot tell us about ELT findings and the implications for our teaching. I discuss what additional information crucially must be considered for adequate interpretation, and specifically how interpretation depends on this information. I urge producers of ELT research to present and interpret this important information and consumers of ELT research to consider it in assessing the implications of ELT findings for their teaching.