By now, everyone should know how to calculate mean, median and mode. They each give us a measure of Central Tendency (i.e. where the center of our data falls), but often give different answers. So how do we know when to use each? Here are some general rules:
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If the data being analyzed is qualitative then the only measure of central tendency that can be reported is the mode. However if the data is quantitative in nature (ordinal or interval/ratio) then the mode median or mean can be used to describe the data.
Median = “middle” data point (or average of two middle data points) when the data points are arranged in numerical order.
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Which measure of central tendency is most affected by extreme high or low scores?
The median gives the greatest weight to elements in the middle of the ordered data. When there are extreme numbers in the data set (very low or very high numbers) the median is a good choice for a measure of central tendency.
Which measure of central tendency would be best to describe the following set of data quizlet?
The mean is the most reliable measure of central tendency. Multiplying every score in the sample by 2 would double the value of the mean. The mean is resistant to extreme observations.
What is the preferred measure of central tendency quizlet?
When scores are measured on an ordinal scale the median is always appropriate and is usually the preferred measure of central tendency.
What calculation is preferred for the central tendency and spread if the distribution of values is skewed?
The median is usually preferred to other measures of central tendency when your data set is skewed (i.e. forms a skewed distribution) or you are dealing with ordinal data.
Which of the following measures of central tendency is best for nominal data quizlet?
Which of these measures of central tendency works for nominal variables? – Both the mean and the median work for nominal variables.
Which of the following measures of central tendency will be the most appropriate to use if the data relate to rates proportions and ratios?
Mean is generally considered the best measure of central tendency and the most frequently used one. However there are some situations where the other measures of central tendency are preferred. There are few extreme scores in the distribution.
Which measure of central tendency that is suitable to represent the data explain your answer?
The median is the safest and best measure of central tendency because it is not as influenced by the vagaries of observed data.
Which measure of central tendency takes into account the magnitude of scores?
Which measure of central tendency takes into account the magnitude of scores? Explaination / Solution: The median can be easily computed by sorting the data from smallest to largest and counting the middle value.
Which measure of center best represents the data?
The mean and the median can be calculated to help you find the “center” of a data set. The mean is the best estimate for the actual data set but the median is the best measurement when a data set contains several outliers or extreme values.