Which curve helps low scores most?

The square root curve benefits lower scores the most. A 49% becomes 70%, while an 81% becomes 90%.

Can a curve lower my grade?

Standard curves only raise grades. Bell-curve grading could theoretically lower relative scores.

No. Curving is at the professor's discretion and varies widely.

Calculate your curved grade using flat curve (add points), square root curve, or highest-score-equals-100 methods.

Your Raw Score

Points to Add (Flat Curve)

Highest Score in Class

Flat Curve Result

78.0 %

Square Root Curve Result82.5 %

Highest=100 Curve Result76.0 %

Flat Curve Result vs Your Raw Score

Add a fixed number of points: Curved = Raw + Points

Curved = sqrt(Raw / 100) x 100 Benefits lower scores more than higher scores.

Curved = Raw + (100 - Highest Score) Everyone gets the same boost.

Raw score of 68%, flat curve of 10, class high of 92%.

Calculate grade percentage.

Calculate extra credit impact.

Average multiple grades.