About the Variance Calculator
Calculate sample or population variance of a data set with each squared deviation shown step by step.
Also known as: sample variance, population variance, variance formula, σ² calculator.
How to use this calculator
- Enter data set, data is a.
- The result updates instantly as you type — press Calculate (or Enter) at any time.
- Open “Step-by-step” to see how the answer was worked out.
- Use Copy result or Share to save the answer or send a link with your inputs.
Formula
s² = Σ(x − x̄)² / (n − 1) · σ² = Σ(x − μ)² / N
Worked example
Using the values pre-filled in the calculator above:
- Data set: 10, 12, 23, 23, 16, 23, 21, 16
- Data is a: Sample
the calculator returns:
- Sample variance s²: 27.42857143
- Standard deviation: 5.23722937
- Mean: 18
- Sum of squares: 192
Working
Mean = 18Σ(x − x̄)² = 192Variance = 192 ÷ (n − 1) = 7 = 27.42857143