Sample variance
This page provides the definition for a mathematics term.
About this resource
A glossary of terms used in mathematics.
Sample variance
A measure of spread for a distribution of a sample of numerical values that determines the degree to which the values differ from the sample mean.
It is calculated by the average of the squares of the deviations of the values from their sample mean.
The positive square root of the sample variance is equal to the sample standard deviation.
It is recommended that a calculator or software is used to calculate the sample variance. On a calculator, the square of the standard deviation will give the variance.
A common symbol for the sample variance is s2.
The sample variance is a (sample) statistic and is therefore an estimate of the population variance.
Curriculum achievement objectives references
Statistical investigation: Levels 7, 8
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