Mean Absolute Deviation Calculator
Find the arithmetic mean, measure each entered value’s absolute distance from that mean internally, and average those distances.
How to use the Mean Absolute Deviation Calculator
Enter a numeric data list with at least two values.
Review data units, missing observations, outliers, population versus sample context, and use of the arithmetic mean as center.
Read mean absolute deviation, arithmetic mean, and value count.
Formula
With arithmetic mean x̄ = Σxᵢ ÷ n, mean absolute deviation MAD = Σ|xᵢ − x̄| ÷ n.
Example
For 2, 4, and 9, mean = 5 and MAD = (3 + 1 + 4) ÷ 3 = 2.666667.
Assumptions and limitations
- Each observation has equal weight, and deviation is always measured from the arithmetic mean rather than the median.
- Mean Absolute Deviation Calculator treats the entered values as estimates and does not infer missing project, account, or personal details.
- Calculations retain working precision except where the cited method requires an intermediate rounding step; displayed values are then formatted separately. Source rules and dated rates must be rechecked when they change.
Sources
- OpenStax: Introductory Statistics 2eMean, deviation, probability, and binomial-distribution formulas. Reviewed 2026-08-14.
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Frequently asked questions
How does the Mean Absolute Deviation Calculator work?
With arithmetic mean x̄ = Σxᵢ ÷ n, mean absolute deviation MAD = Σ|xᵢ − x̄| ÷ n.
What information should I enter in the Mean Absolute Deviation Calculator?
Enter a numeric data list with at least two values, then verify data units, missing observations, outliers, population versus sample context, and use of the arithmetic mean as center.
What should I verify before using this Mean Absolute Deviation Calculator result?
Each observation has equal weight, and deviation is always measured from the arithmetic mean rather than the median.
Reviewed 2026-08-14 · 1.0.0 · content-2026-08-14 · Trusty Calculator Editorial Team