How to estimate standard deviation from a histogram?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for a method to estimate the standard deviation of a dataset using a histogram. This typically involves examining the spread of the data represented in the histogram and calculating the standard deviation based on that spread.
Answer
First, estimate the mean using the midpoints and frequencies, then determine the variance and take its square root to find the standard deviation.
The process involves estimating the mean and then determining the variance from which the standard deviation is derived.
Answer for screen readers
The process involves estimating the mean and then determining the variance from which the standard deviation is derived.
More Information
This method relies on approximations because the exact data points within each histogram bin are unknown. Therefore, the calculated standard deviation is an estimate.
Tips
A common mistake is to incorrectly calculate the midpoints or misinterpret the frequencies. Carefully verify these values for accuracy.
