Sample Standard Deviation vs. Population Standard Deviation? (1 Viewer)

[qwertywerido]

Okay, looking at my calculator there are two possible options for standard deviation- which one should use? Looking online, people have been consistently going- oh just look at the numbers etc. etc. How are y'all doing this? Is there one set button that we are supposed to be using?

 

[jimmysmith560]

I believe that would depend on the question(s) you are exposed to? In essence, the population standard deviation is relevant where the numbers that you are given are indicative of the entire population and the sample standard deviation is relevant where the numbers are a sample of a much larger population. Based on this, you will be able to determine which standard deviation option you should use on your calculator.

Alternatively, the formulas for sample standard deviation and population standard deviation are as follows:

Sample standard deviation:

Population standard deviation:

I hope this helps!

 

[quickoats]

In high school I believe you just use population standard deviation.

 

[BLIT2014]

Maybe show us a picture of your calculator.