MODE (MEASURE OF CENTRAL TENDENCY) STATISTICS FOR GCE O LEVELS/IGCSE

The mode is defined as the value which occurs most frequently in a set of data that is indicating the most common result.

Example: find the mode of the following set of numbers. 146, 167, 164, 157, 171, 167, 182, 197.

Mode = 167

Solution:

MODE FREQUENCY DISTRIBUTION EXAMPLE

Class Intervals	Frequency
10-14	2
15-19	8
20-24	20
25-29	15
30-34	3
35-39	6

Modal Class is 20-24

ADVANTAGES OF MODE

1. It is simply defined and easily calculated. It is very easy to locate.
2. It is not affected by large or small observations.
3. It can be determined for both the qualitative and quantitative data.
4. It is capable of being ascertained graphically

DISADVANTAGES OF MODE

1. It represents the most frequent value and hence it is very often in practice. The arrangement of data is not necessary.
2. It is not based on all observations made.
3. It is often indeterminate and indefinite.
4. It is not capable of lending itself to further statistical treatment. • It cannot be subjected to algebraic treatments.
5. It is used for the study of most popular fashions.
6. It is extremely used by businessmen and commercial managements.

In histogram, frequency curve or polygon, the mode can be located easily. Class interval/boundary with highest frequency is the mode.

EXAMPLE WORKING THROUGH GRAPH