How to calculate mean absolute deviation (MAD)

Mean absolute deviation is a measure of variation for a data set. To calculate it, first find the mean. Then find the difference between the mean and each data value -- but take that difference as POSITIVE. In other words, we take the absolute value of each difference or deviation.

Lastly, calculate the MEAN (average) of those deviations (differences). So, the name really explains what it is: mean absolute deviation is the mean of the absolute deviations (differences) from the mean.

See also

Range and Interquartile Range — video lesson

Math Mammoth Grade 6 curriculum

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