How to Calculate the Mean
Determine the set of values you want to average., Add your values together to find the sum., Count the quantity of values in your group., Divide the sum of the set by the count of values.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Determine the set of values you want to average.
These numbers can be big or small, and there can be as many of them as you want.
Just make sure you are using real numbers and not variables.
Example: 2,3,4,5,6. -
Step 2: Add your values together to find the sum.
You can use a calculator or a spreadsheet, or do it by hand if the set is simple enough.
Example: 2+3+4+5+6=20. , If you have values that repeat in your set, each one still counts in determining your total.
Example: 2,3,4,5, and 6 make for a total of five values. , The result is the mean, or average, of your set.
This means that if each number in your set was the mean, they would add up to the same total.
Example: 20 ÷ 5 = 4 Therefore 4 is the mean of the numbers. -
Step 3: Count the quantity of values in your group.
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Step 4: Divide the sum of the set by the count of values.
Detailed Guide
These numbers can be big or small, and there can be as many of them as you want.
Just make sure you are using real numbers and not variables.
Example: 2,3,4,5,6.
You can use a calculator or a spreadsheet, or do it by hand if the set is simple enough.
Example: 2+3+4+5+6=20. , If you have values that repeat in your set, each one still counts in determining your total.
Example: 2,3,4,5, and 6 make for a total of five values. , The result is the mean, or average, of your set.
This means that if each number in your set was the mean, they would add up to the same total.
Example: 20 ÷ 5 = 4 Therefore 4 is the mean of the numbers.
About the Author
Melissa Nguyen
Experienced content creator specializing in organization guides and tutorials.
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