Precision
- Describes how exact a measurement, calculation, or statement is.
- Depends on instrument quality and the skill of the person performing the measurement.
- Can be improved by taking multiple measurements and averaging them; important in fields like medicine and manufacturing.
Definition
Section titled “Definition”Precision is the degree of accuracy or exactness of a measurement, calculation, or statement.
Explanation
Section titled “Explanation”Precision indicates how close a measurement, calculation, or statement is to a specific, repeatable value. It is important across many fields—such as science, engineering, and mathematics—because higher precision yields more accurate and reliable results. Factors that affect precision include the quality and calibration of instruments and the skill and training of the person performing the measurement or calculation. Repeating measurements and averaging them (taking a mean) reduces the impact of individual errors or variations, producing a more precise result.
Examples
Section titled “Examples”Medicine
Section titled “Medicine”Medical professionals must be precise in measurements and calculations to diagnose and treat patients accurately. For example:
- Administering medication requires precise measurement of dosage; imprecise dosing can lead to negative side effects or death.
- Performing surgeries or diagnostic tests requires precise measurements and calculations to ensure procedures are successful and safe.
Manufacturing
Section titled “Manufacturing”Manufacturers must be precise to produce high-quality products. For example:
- Engineers designing a new car model must be precise in design and dimensions so the car functions correctly and meets safety standards.
- Producing consumer products such as electronics or appliances requires precision in component size and shape so parts fit together correctly and function properly.
Use cases
Section titled “Use cases”- Science
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Medicine
- Manufacturing
Notes or pitfalls
Section titled “Notes or pitfalls”- Precision is affected by the accuracy and calibration of tools or instruments.
- The skill and training of the person performing measurements or calculations influence precision.
- Improving precision often requires taking multiple measurements and averaging them (mean) to minimize the impact of errors or variation.
Related terms
Section titled “Related terms”- Accuracy
- Average / Mean
- Calibration
- Measurement