This book is the first installment in a three-part series designed to guide social scientists from foundational statistical concepts to advanced data modeling and analysis using R. It introduces readers to core techniques in statistics and R programming, providing a foundation for subsequent volumes. The second book, Using R for Intermediate Statistics in the Social Sciences, builds on these foundations to cover multivariate designs, including factorial, mixed, and repeated measures ANOVA, expanded regression models, and reliability and validity testing. The final volume, Using R for Advanced Statistics in the Social Sciences, advances to hierarchical and longitudinal modeling, robust and Bayesian approaches, and contemporary machine learning methods. Collectively, the series offers a structured progression, enabling readers to develop statistical fluency and apply R effectively in social science research, from basic analyses to sophisticated modeling and theory-driven inquiry.