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How to find the range of data?

Published in Data Range 1 min read

The range of data is found by calculating the difference between the highest and lowest values in a dataset.

Understanding Range

The range is a simple measure of variability. It provides a quick indication of how spread out the data is.

Calculating the Range

To find the range, follow these steps:

  1. Identify the highest value in the dataset.
  2. Identify the lowest value in the dataset.
  3. Subtract the lowest value from the highest value.

Formula

Range = Highest Value – Lowest Value

Example

Consider the following data set: {2, 5, 8, 10, 3}

  1. Highest Value: 10
  2. Lowest Value: 2
  3. Range: 10 – 2 = 8

Therefore, the range of this data set is 8. The reference confirms this, stating: "The range in statistics for a given data set is the difference between the highest and lowest values. For example, if the given data set is {2,5,8,10,3}, then the range will be 10 – 2 = 8. Thus, the range could also be defined as the difference between the highest observation and lowest observation."

Practical Insights

  • The range is easy to calculate.
  • The range is sensitive to outliers (extreme values). A single outlier can significantly affect the range.
  • It only considers the extreme values and ignores the distribution of the data between them.