Statistics

Variance Formula - Statistics

Learn the variance formula with examples, step-by-step guide, and calculator tools. Measure how far a set of numbers are spread out from their average

The variance formula is a fundamental concept in statistics. Measure how far a set of numbers are spread out from their average. This page provides a comprehensive guide with worked examples and practical applications.

The Formula

\[\sigma^2 = \frac{1}{n}\sum_{i=1}^{n}(x_i - \bar{x})^2\]

Variables

σ²
Variance
n
Number of values
xᵢ
Individual values
Mean of values

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. 1

    Step 1: Gather your data values

  2. 2

    Step 2: Apply the formula

  3. 3

    Step 3: Perform the calculations

  4. 4

    Step 4: Interpret the result

Examples

Example 1

Example 1: [2,4,6,8,10] → Variance = [(2-6)² + (4-6)² + (6-6)² + (8-6)² + (10-6)²] / 5 = 40/5 = 8

Example 2

Example 2: 8

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the variance formula?

Measure how far a set of numbers are spread out from their average

How do I calculate variance formula?

Use the formula: \sigma^2 = \frac{1}{n}\sum_{i=1}^{n}(x_i - \bar{x})^2. Follow the steps provided above.

What tools can help with variance formula?

We provide online calculators: variance-calculator, standard-deviation-calculator

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