When to use this calculator
Find a dataset percentile using inclusive linear interpolation. Uses the inclusive linear-interpolation convention, often called type 7. Other software conventions can differ.
Explore the descriptive statistics calculators for other questions in this topic. For a related calculation, use the Percentile Rank Calculator: Find the percentage of supplied observations strictly below a chosen value.
PUTTING IT INTO PRACTICE
Percentile: 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 | 1,2,3,4,5 |
| Percentile | 25 |
| Result | 2 |
- Check the input labels and enter the example values above.
- Apply the relationship: Index = (n − 1) × percentile/100; interpolate between adjacent sorted values..
- The result is 2 , rounded for display.
How to interpret your result
Uses the inclusive linear-interpolation convention, often called type 7. Other software conventions can differ.
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 percentile calculator useful?
Find a dataset percentile using inclusive linear interpolation. Uses the inclusive linear-interpolation convention, often called type 7. Other software conventions can differ.
How do I use the percentile calculator?
Enter data values, percentile. The result updates automatically. Use the units shown beside each input; the example values illustrate the method.
Which formula does this calculator use?
Index = (n − 1) × percentile/100; interpolate between adjacent sorted values..
What should I check before using the result?
Uses the inclusive linear-interpolation convention, often called type 7. Other software conventions can differ.
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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