Variance calculator
Variance is the average squared distance from the mean. This tool shows both versions so you can pick the one that fits your data.
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How to use it
- Enter data (separate numbers with commas, spaces or new lines).
- The result appears straight away and updates as you edit.
- Copy the result, or copy a link that keeps the same values to share it.
How it is calculated
Sample variance s² = Σ(x - x̄)² ÷ (n - 1). Population variance σ² = Σ(x - μ)² ÷ n.
Example
Result: Sample variance (s²): 2.5; Population variance (σ²): 2; Sample standard deviation: 1.581139.
Limits and caveats
- Variance is in squared units of the data, so the standard deviation is easier to interpret.
- At least two values are required.
Questions about this tool
Why does sample variance divide by n - 1?
Deviations are measured from the sample mean rather than the true mean, which makes them slightly too small. Dividing by n - 1 corrects that bias.
How is variance related to standard deviation?
The standard deviation is the square root of the variance.
Which Excel functions match these results?
Sample variance matches VAR.S and population variance matches VAR.P.