Choose the Measure That Fits
When describing the center of a data set, first look at the shape and at any unusual values.
1. Identify the data pattern
- If the values are fairly balanced with no extreme outliers, the mean is often a good choice.
- If the data are skewed or have outliers, the median is usually better because it is less affected by extreme values.
- If the question asks for the most common value, use the mode.
2. Decide which measure is most appropriate
Ask: “Which measure best represents a typical value here?”
- Mean: best for roughly symmetric data.
- Median: best for skewed data or data with outliers.
- Mode: best for categorical data or when the most frequent value is needed.
3. Check your choice
Make sure your answer matches the context. For example, a very large or very small value can pull the mean away from the rest of the data, so the median may describe the center more accurately.
4. Simplify the final response
If you are selecting from options, name the measure and briefly justify it using the data’s shape or outliers. Your final answer should be concise and clearly supported by the data.