How it works
Find the arithmetic mean, take each observation’s absolute distance from it, and average those distances. For 1, 2 and 6, the mean is 3 and the distances are 2, 1 and 3, giving a mean absolute deviation of 2. Repeated observations each count once.
Inputs and units
| Input | Example value | What to enter |
|---|---|---|
| Observations | 1 2 6 | Separate numbers with spaces or semicolons; use a decimal point. |
Worked example
Show example inputs and results
This example is generated by the same calculation engine using the starting values in the form. Your own inputs produce your own result.
- Observations
- 1 2 6
Complete example results
- Mean absolute deviation
- 2
- Arithmetic mean
- 3
Reading the result
Keep the list to one kind of measurement. Outliers can affect the mean; sample and population formulas use different denominators. The tool applies its stated method and does not establish the quality of your data.
Questions and answers
Can I use the example values for my own calculation?
The example values illustrate the calculation. Replace every input with your own information, especially dates, rates and the selected operation.
Is this median absolute deviation?
No. This tool takes a mean of distances from the arithmetic mean. Median absolute deviation uses a median as its centre and another median to combine the distances.
Why are some results rounded?
Results display up to 8 decimal places. Calculations use the unrounded values; very small values use scientific notation. JavaScript floating-point arithmetic can introduce tiny rounding differences.
Are my inputs sent to a server?
The calculator processes inputs in your browser. Its code does not send your values to a server.