Non-parametric methods are widely used for studying populations that take on a ranked order (such as movie reviews receiving one to four stars). The use of non-parametric methods may be necessary when data have a ranking but no clear numerical interpretation, such as when assessing preferences.

When should nonparametric statistics be used?

Non parametric tests are used when your data isn't normal. Therefore the key is to figure out if you have normally distributed data. For example, you could look at the distribution of your data. If your data is approximately normal, then you can use parametric statistical tests.

What are the uses of non parametric methods?

Non-parametric methods are used to analyze data when the distributional assumptions of more common procedures are not satisfied. For example, many statistical procedures assume that the underlying error distribution is Gaussian, hence the widespread use of means and standard deviations.