Variance Calculator - Sample & Population
Calculate variance and standard deviation for sample or population data. Measure data spread and variability with our variance calculator.
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Use sample variance when your data is a subset of a larger population
Variance measures how far a set of numbers are spread out from their average value. It's the average of the squared differences from the mean.
- Sample variance (s²): Use when your data is a subset of a larger population. Divides by n-1 (Bessel's correction).
- Population variance (σ²): Use when you have data for the entire population. Divides by n.
Standard deviation is the square root of variance. While variance is in squared units, standard deviation is in the same units as your data, making it easier to interpret.
Low variance means data points are close to the mean (consistent). High variance means data points are spread out (variable).
How to Use Variance Calculator
- 1
Choose between sample variance (s²) or population variance (σ²).
- 2
Enter your numbers separated by commas, spaces, or new lines.
- 3
Click "Calculate Variance" to compute the result.
- 4
View variance, standard deviation, mean, and count.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is variance?▾
Variance measures how far a set of numbers are spread out from their average value. It's the average of the squared differences from the mean.
Sample vs population variance?▾
Use sample variance (s²) when your data is a subset of a larger population (divides by n-1). Use population variance (σ²) when you have data for the entire population (divides by n).
What is the relationship between variance and standard deviation?▾
Standard deviation is the square root of variance. While variance is in squared units, standard deviation is in the same units as your data.
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