Circular Distribution
- Values are symmetrically arranged with similar counts on either side of a central value.
- Often appears as a bell-shaped (normal) curve centered on the average.
- Useful for visualizing patterns and identifying clusters and outliers for decision making.
Definition
Section titled “Definition”Circular distribution refers to the distribution of a variable that is evenly distributed around a central value, exhibiting symmetry with the same number of values on either side of that central value.
Explanation
Section titled “Explanation”A circular distribution is characterized by data clustered symmetrically about a central value (often the average). In such distributions the central value is the most common value and typically corresponds to the highest point of a normal or bell-shaped curve. The symmetry implies a similar number of observations on either side of the center, and the presence of few observations far from the center (outliers).
Examples
Section titled “Examples”Ages of a group
Section titled “Ages of a group”If a group contains an equal number of people in each age range (e.g. 20-30, 30-40, 40-50, etc.), the data will form a circular distribution around the central value of the group’s average age.
Exam scores in a classroom
Section titled “Exam scores in a classroom”If the majority of students receive similar scores, with a few outliers on either end, the data will form a circular distribution around the central value of the class average.
Use cases
Section titled “Use cases”- Identifying patterns and trends in data sets (for example, recognizing that most observations cluster near the average).
- Targeting instruction or support based on clustering around the class average (teacher example).
- Visualizing and analyzing data to inform decision making.
Related terms
Section titled “Related terms”- Normal distribution (bell-shaped curve)
- Mean (average)
- Outlier