MihsabaHow to use
The coefficient of variation calculator measures spread relative to the dataset mean and reports mean, standard deviation and variance. Choose sample or population mode. CV is useful for comparing relative variability across scales, but becomes unstable when the mean is near zero.
- Enter values separated by commas, spaces or line breaks.
- Choose sample for a sample standard deviation or population for a complete population.
- Calculate to see CV, mean, standard deviation and variance.
How it is calculated
Example
Example: for 10, 12, 9, 11, 13, 10, the mean is about 10.833. In sample mode, s uses n−1 and CV = s / |mean| × 100%.
Important notes
Do not rely on CV when the mean is zero or very close to zero. Sample versus population standard deviation also changes the reported CV.
Frequently asked questions
How is CV different from standard deviation?
Standard deviation keeps the data's units; CV expresses spread relative to the mean as a percentage.
Sample or population?
Use sample when observations are a sample from a broader population; use population when the full population is present.
Why is CV undefined at mean zero?
Because the formula divides by the magnitude of the mean.
Is this calculator free?
Yes. It is free to use and requires no account.