Range Calculator Formula
Understand the math behind the range calculator. Each variable explained with a worked example.
Formulas Used
Range
range = max_val - min_valMinimum
minimum = min_valMaximum
maximum = max_valMean
mean = (a + b + c + d) / 4Midrange
midrange = (min_val + max_val) / 2Variables
| Variable | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|
a | Value 1 | 15 |
b | Value 2 | 28 |
c | Value 3 | 7 |
d | Value 4 | 42 |
min_val | Derived value= min(min(a, b), min(c, d)) | calculated |
max_val | Derived value= max(max(a, b), max(c, d)) | calculated |
How It Works
How to Calculate the Range
Formula
Range = Maximum Value - Minimum Value
The range is the simplest measure of spread in a data set. It tells you the total span of your data.
The midrange is the average of the minimum and maximum: (min + max) / 2.
Worked Example
Find the range of the values 15, 28, 7, and 42.
- 01Minimum = 7
- 02Maximum = 42
- 03Range = 42 - 7 = 35
- 04Midrange = (7 + 42) / 2 = 24.5
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the range in statistics?
The range is the difference between the highest and lowest values in a data set. It provides a quick measure of how spread out the data is.
What are the limitations of the range?
The range only considers the two extreme values and ignores the distribution of all other data points. It is sensitive to outliers. Standard deviation is usually a more informative measure of spread.
Learn More
Guide
Understanding Standard Deviation - Complete Guide
Learn what standard deviation is, how to calculate it step by step, and why it matters. Covers population vs. sample standard deviation with clear examples.
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