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Mihsaba›Mean Absolute Deviation Calculator

Mean Absolute Deviation Calculator

Calculate mean absolute deviation around the mean, median or a custom center, with mean, median and count shown alongside.

How to use

This calculator finds mean absolute deviation: the average absolute distance between values and a chosen center. Use the mean, median or a custom center. Because deviations are not squared, the result stays in the same units as the data.

  1. Enter the dataset.
  2. Choose mean, median or a custom center.
  3. Calculate to see MAD and descriptive values.

How it is calculated

MAD = (1/n) Σ |xᵢ − c|

Example

Example: for 4, 8, 6, 5, 3, 7, the mean is 5.5 and absolute distances sum to 9, so MAD = 9 / 6 = 1.5.

Important notes

MAD can also mean median absolute deviation, which is a different statistic. This tool computes the mean of absolute deviations around the selected center.

Frequently asked questions

Is MAD less sensitive to outliers than variance?

Often yes because deviations are not squared, though outliers can still affect the mean and mean-centered MAD.

Can I measure around the median?

Yes. Select median as the center.

What units does MAD use?

The same units as the input data.

Is this calculator free?

Yes. It is free to use and requires no account.