What method is used to determine the statistical mean of a data set?

The statistical mean, often referred to as the average, is calculated by adding all the values in a given data set and then dividing that sum by the total number of items in the data set. This method provides a central point that represents the entire data set, allowing for the comparison of different data sets and the understanding of their overall tendency.

Calculating the mean is essential because it gives a clear indication of the general magnitude of the values within the set, thus serving as a foundational statistical measure used in various analyses. For example, if you have a series of test scores from a class, finding the mean would help you determine the overall performance of the class.

The other methods mentioned serve different purposes. Identifying the most frequently occurring value pertains to the mode, which highlights distribution tendencies without reflecting overall size. Subtracting the minimum value from the maximum value gives the range, indicating the spread of the data rather than the average. Calculating the average of the highest and lowest values provides a type of average but does not account for all other numbers in the set, potentially leading to a skewed understanding of the data's central tendency. Thus, the method of summing all values and dividing by the count directly determines the statistical mean effectively.