To find the range of a data set, you need to follow these simple steps:
- Identify the Maximum Value: Look through your data set and determine the highest number.
- Identify the Minimum Value: Similarly, find the lowest number in your data set.
- Calculate the Range: Subtract the minimum value from the maximum value.
For example, if your data set consists of the numbers 3, 7, 2, 9, and 5, the maximum value is 9 and the minimum is 2. Therefore, the range would be:
Range = Maximum – Minimum = 9 – 2 = 7
The range provides a simple way to understand the spread of values in your data set. A larger range indicates a greater spread between the smallest and largest values, while a smaller range indicates that the values tend to be closer together.