When to use this calculator
Find the arithmetic mean of a variable-length list of numbers. Accepts up to 1,000 equally weighted observations. Outliers can strongly affect the mean.
Explore the descriptive statistics calculators for other questions in this topic. For a related calculation, use the Coefficient of Variation Calculator: Express a standard deviation relative to a positive mean.
PUTTING IT INTO PRACTICE
Arithmetic Mean: a worked example
The values below are an illustrative example, not a recommendation. Replace them with measurements or assumptions that match your question.
| Input | Example value |
|---|---|
| Data values separated by commas or spaces | 2,4,6,8 |
| Result | 5 |
- Check the input labels and enter the example values above.
- Apply the relationship: Mean = sum of all observations/number of observations..
- The result is 5 , rounded for display.
How to interpret your result
Accepts up to 1,000 equally weighted observations. Outliers can strongly affect the mean.
The mean, median, range and standard-deviation tools accept variable-length lists with their limits stated. Choose a sample or population denominator appropriately. A summary statistic does not validate the sampling process or explain causation.
Frequently asked questions
Should I use sample or population standard deviation?
Use population deviation for the complete population being described. Use the sample form when estimating variability from a sample under suitable assumptions.
When is the arithmetic mean calculator useful?
Find the arithmetic mean of a variable-length list of numbers. Accepts up to 1,000 equally weighted observations. Outliers can strongly affect the mean.
How do I use the arithmetic mean calculator?
Enter data values separated by commas or spaces. The result updates automatically. Use the units shown beside each input; the example values illustrate the method.
Which formula does this calculator use?
Mean = sum of all observations/number of observations..
What should I check before using the result?
Accepts up to 1,000 equally weighted observations. Outliers can strongly affect the mean.
How are results rounded?
Scalar numbers display up to six decimal places, with scientific notation for very large or small values. Text, fraction, date and schedule outputs use the format described on the tool. Intermediate calculations use JavaScript floating-point arithmetic. Keep sensible precision for your measurements.
Further reading
For background on this topic, see NIST: exploratory data analysis ↗. This is a topic reference, not an external review or endorsement of this tool.
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