Mean vs Median — Difference (with Table & FAQs)
Mean is the average of all values in a dataset. Median is the middle value when data is arranged in order.
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TL;DR: Mean is the average of all values in a dataset. Median is the middle value when data is arranged in order.
Written & reviewed by the Syllab.in Academic Team (CBSE/NCERT subject experts) · Updated
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The main difference between Mean and Median: Mean is the average of all values in a dataset. Median is the middle value when data is arranged in order.
Mean vs Median — Comparison Table
| Basis | Mean | Median |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Sum divided by number of values | Middle value in ordered data |
| Formula | Mean = Sum / n | Position = (n+1)/2 for odd n |
| Effect of Outliers | Affected greatly by extreme values | Unaffected by extreme values |
| Calculation | Add all values, divide by count | Find middle value after sorting |
| Even/Odd Data | Same process | Average two middle values if even |
| Use | Best for normal distribution | Best for skewed data |
Key Points
- Mean is affected by all values including outliers
- Median is more robust for skewed data
- Both are measures of central tendency
- Mode is third measure of central tendency