AllCalculators.io

Range Calculator

Compute the range (max − min) of a list of numbers, plus the minimum, maximum, and count.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is range?

The difference between the largest and smallest values in a dataset. The simplest measure of spread.

Range vs IQR?

Range uses max − min and is sensitive to outliers. IQR uses Q3 − Q1 (middle 50%) and is robust.

Can range be zero?

Yes - if all values are identical. Otherwise it's positive.

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Estimates for informational purposes only.

Important Disclaimer: Estimates for informational purposes only.

This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only. Results are based on assumptions and may not reflect actual outcomes. Consult qualified professionals in relevant fields before making important decisions based on these results.

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How This Calculator Works

Paste or type a list of numbers separated by commas, spaces, or new lines. The calculator returns the range (largest minus smallest), plus the minimum, maximum, and count of values.

Formula

range = max(x) − min(x). It's the simplest measure of spread but very sensitive to outliers - a single extreme value can dominate the range. For more robust spread, use the IQR or standard deviation.

Worked Example

Data: 5, 12, 8, 21, 3. Max = 21, min = 3, range = 21 − 3 = 18. Count = 5. If you remove the outlier 21 the range drops to 12 − 3 = 9 - illustrating how a single value drives the metric.

Common Mistakes

Reporting range without context; it doesn't convey middle-of-distribution spread.
Using range with small samples - estimates are noisy.
Ignoring outliers; they completely determine the range.
Confusing range with interquartile range (IQR), which trims the extremes.

Tips & FAQ

When is range useful? Quick first look at variability or when communicating to non-statisticians.

Robust alternatives? IQR (Q3 − Q1) is robust to outliers; standard deviation captures spread around the mean.

Range in process control? Used in &Rmacr; charts to monitor variability over time.