Your result
How this calculation works
Variance = sum of squared deviations from the mean ÷ n for a population, or ÷ (n − 1) for a sample. Standard deviation is its square root.
Enter numeric data and choose population or sample interpretation. The sample calculation uses n − 1 and requires at least two values.
How to use this calculator
- Enter or choose numbers (commas or spaces).
- Enter or choose data interpretation.
- Select Calculate and review the result and assumptions.
Worked example
For 2, 4, 4, 4, 5, 5, 7, 9, population standard deviation is 2 and variance is 4.
Assumptions and limitations
Choose the interpretation appropriate to your data. Up to 5,000 finite values are accepted.
Frequently asked questions
Which option should I choose?
Use population when the data comprise the whole population of interest; use sample when estimating population variability from a sample.
Can sample deviation use just one value?
No. Its denominator n − 1 would be zero.