This paper outlines two types of discriminant analysis, predictive discriminant analysis (PDA) and descriptive discriminant analysis (DDA). Important differences between PDA and DDA are introduced and discussed using a heuristic data set, specifically indicating the portions of the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) output relevant to each type of discriminant analysis. The importance of knowing distinguishing features of PDA and DDA is highlighted using an example of stepwise discriminant analysis. Data are taken from the dataset of K. Holzinger and F. Swineford (1939) for 301 seventh and eighth graders. Two appendixes illustrate computer programs for discriminant analysis. (Contains 9 tables and 29 references.) (Author/SLD)