Find the median of the data set: 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14.
Aptitude
Statistics
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
Answer
Correct Answer: 8
Explanation
Introduction / Context:The median is the middle value in an ordered data set. For odd-sized samples, it is the central observation.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Ordered data (n = 7): 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14.
Concept / Approach:With 7 values, the 4th value is the median.
Step-by-Step Solution:Indexing from 1: the 4th value is 8.
Verification / Alternative check:Equal number of observations on either side (three below and three above).
Why Other Options Are Wrong:6 and 10 are adjacent but not central; 9.5 would be the median for an even-sized data set between 9 and 10, not applicable here.
Common Pitfalls:Confusing mean and median; the mean here is also 8 but that is coincidental due to symmetry.
Final Answer:8