Coefficient of Variation

Updated 30 Sep 2026

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What it is
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  standard deviation expressed as a percentage of the mean — lets you compare relative spread across data sets with different units or scales
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Formula (population)
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  $CV = \dfrac{\sigma}{\mu} \times 100\%$
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Formula (sample)
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  $CV = \dfrac{S}{\bar{X}} \times 100\%$ ]
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Applicability
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  most interpretable for ratio-scale measurements with a meaningful zero and a positive mean
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Caution
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  becomes unstable when the mean is close to zero
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  generally unsuitable for comparing measurements on arbitrary-zero scales such as Celsius temperature
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Related
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  Standard Deviation
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  Measures of Dispersion

Linked references 2