Standard Deviation Calculator

Calculate standard deviation and variance from any data set — population or sample. Paste comma-separated numbers and read mean, σ or s, variance, and count for statistics homework, QC, and research.

  • Free to Use
  • No Signup
  • Privacy Friendly
Enter numbers

How to calculate standard deviation

  1. 1

    Enter your data

    Paste numbers separated by commas, spaces, or line breaks. Example: 12, 15, 14, 18, 16, 13.

  2. 2

    Choose population or sample

    Use sample (n−1 denominator) when data is a subset of a larger group. Use population (n denominator) for the complete data set.

  3. 3

    Read σ, variance, and mean

    See standard deviation, variance, mean, and count. For central tendency only, use the average calculator.

Standard deviation formulas

μ = Σx ÷ n
σ² = Σ(x − μ)² ÷ n  (population)
= Σ(x − μ)² ÷ (n − 1)  (sample)
  • σ, s — standard deviation (square root of variance)
  • n — number of values
  • Use sample (n−1) when data is a subset of a larger population

Why Use This Tool?

  • Both σ Types

    Sample (n−1) and population (n) standard deviation side by side.

  • Full Stats

    Mean, variance, standard deviation, and count in one view.

  • Easy Input

    Paste comma, space, or newline-separated numbers.

  • Local Only

    Your dataset never leaves the browser.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between sample and population standard deviation?

Population (σ) divides by n — use when you have the entire data set. Sample (s) divides by n−1 — use when data is a sample of a larger population.

How is standard deviation calculated?

SD = √(Σ(x − mean)² / n) for population, or divide by n−1 for sample. It measures spread around the mean.

What is variance?

Variance is SD squared (σ²). Standard deviation is in the same units as your data — easier to interpret.

How many data points do I need?

At least two values for sample SD. More data points produce more stable estimates.

Is this standard deviation calculator free?

Yes. Unlimited data sets with no signup.

Standard Deviation Calculator — TetraKits

Measure Spread Around the Mean

Quality control charts, survey analysis, and statistics coursework all need standard deviation — not just averages. Paste a data set, pick population or sample mode, and read σ, variance, and mean together.