A statistical distribution describes how values of a random variable are spread or arranged. It provides a framework for understanding the likelihood of different outcomes in a dataset. Common types of distributions include the normal distribution, binomial distribution, and Poisson distribution, each with unique characteristics and applications. Distributions can be visualized using graphs, such as histograms or probability density functions, which help illustrate the frequency of various outcomes. Understanding statistical distributions is essential in fields like statistics, data analysis, and machine learning, as they inform decision-making and predictions based on data patterns.