IGCSE Methods of Analysing Data: Complete Guide for Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics

IGCSE methods of analysing data are essential statistics topics in Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics that appear in both Paper 2 and Paper 4. Mastering mean, median, mode, range, quartiles, and standard deviation is essential for interpreting and analyzing data sets.

This comprehensive IGCSE methods of analysing data guide covers everything you need to know, including measures of central tendency, measures of spread, worked examples, common exam questions, and expert tips from Tutopiya’s IGCSE maths tutors. We’ll also show you how to avoid the most common mistakes that cost students valuable marks.

🎯 What you’ll learn: By the end of this guide, you’ll know how to calculate mean, median, mode, range, quartiles, and standard deviation, and apply these skills to analyze data in IGCSE exams.

Already studying with Tutopiya? Practice these skills with our dedicated IGCSE Statistics practice deck featuring exam-style questions and instant feedback.

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Why IGCSE Methods of Analysing Data Matter

IGCSE methods of analysing data are essential statistics topics. Here’s why they’re so important:

• High frequency topic: Data analysis questions appear regularly in IGCSE maths papers
• Foundation skill: Essential for understanding statistics and data interpretation
• Exam weight: Typically worth 6-10 marks per paper
• Real-world applications: Used in research, business, and science
• Problem-solving skills: Develops statistical reasoning and data interpretation

Key insight from examiners: Students often confuse different measures or make calculation errors. This guide will help you master these systematically.

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Understanding Data Analysis

Data analysis involves calculating measures that describe and summarize data sets.

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Measures of Central Tendency

Mean (Average)

Mean = Sum of all values / Number of values

Example 1: Find the mean of: 5, 7, 9, 11, 13

Solution: Mean = (5 + 7 + 9 + 11 + 13) / 5 = 45 / 5 = 9

Answer: 9

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Median

Median = middle value when data is arranged in order

Example 2: Find the median of: 3, 5, 7, 9, 11

Solution: Middle value = 7

Answer: 7

For even number of values: Average of two middle values

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Mode

Mode = most frequently occurring value

Example 3: Find the mode of: 2, 3, 3, 4, 5, 3, 6

Solution: Mode = 3 (appears most often)

Answer: 3

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Measures of Spread

Range

Range = Largest value - Smallest value

Example 4: Find the range of: 5, 8, 12, 15, 20

Solution: Range = 20 - 5 = 15

Answer: 15

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Quartiles

Lower quartile (Q1): Value at 25% position Median (Q2): Value at 50% position Upper quartile (Q3): Value at 75% position Interquartile range (IQR): Q3 - Q1

Example 5: Data: 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14. Find Q1, Q2, Q3.

Solution: Q2 (median) = 8 Q1 = median of lower half = 4 Q3 = median of upper half = 12 IQR = 12 - 4 = 8

Answer: Q1 = 4, Q2 = 8, Q3 = 12, IQR = 8

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Standard Deviation

Standard deviation measures how spread out data is.

Formula: σ = √[Σ(x - x̄)² / n]

For IGCSE, often use calculator or given formula.

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Common Examiner Traps

• Confusing measures - Mean = average, Median = middle, Mode = most frequent
• Calculation errors - Double-check arithmetic
• Order errors - Always arrange data in order for median/quartiles

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Practice Questions

Question 1

Find the mean, median, and mode of: 4, 6, 6, 8, 10, 12

Solution: Mean = (4+6+6+8+10+12)/6 = 46/6 = 7.67 Median = (6+8)/2 = 7 Mode = 6

Answer: Mean = 7.67, Median = 7, Mode = 6

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Frequently Asked Questions About IGCSE Methods of Analysing Data

What is the mean?

The mean is the average: sum of all values divided by number of values.

What is the median?

The median is the middle value when data is arranged in order.

What is the mode?

The mode is the most frequently occurring value in the data set.

What is the range?

The range is the difference between the largest and smallest values.

What are quartiles?

Quartiles divide data into four equal parts: Q1 (25%), Q2 (50% = median), Q3 (75%).

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Related IGCSE Maths Resources

Strengthen your IGCSE Mathematics preparation with these comprehensive guides:

• IGCSE Statistical Charts and Diagrams: Complete Guide - Master data representation
• IGCSE Scatter Plots: Complete Guide - Master correlation analysis
• IGCSE Maths Revision Notes, Syllabus and Preparation Tips - Complete syllabus overview, topic breakdown, and revision strategies
• IGCSE Past Papers Guide - Access free IGCSE past papers and exam resources

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