Calculate the median of 14, 17, 10, 13, 18 and 10.

Analysis

To find the median of a set of numbers, you must first arrange them in numerical order (either ascending or descending). The median is the middle value of the data set. If the set has an even number of values, the median is the average (mean) of the two middle numbers.

Concept

1. Arrange the data: Sort the numbers from smallest to largest.
2. Identify the middle: Since there are 6 numbers (an even count), there is no single middle number. We must take the two middle values.
3. Calculate the average: Add the two middle numbers together and divide by 2.

Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Arrange the numbers in ascending order. The given numbers are: 14, 17, 10, 13, 18, 10. Sorted: 10, 10, 13, 14, 17, 18.

Step 2: Identify the two middle numbers. Since there are 6 numbers, the middle positions are the 3rd and 4th values.

• 1st: 10
• 2nd: 10
• 3rd: 13
• 4th: 14
• 5th: 17
• 6th: 18

The two middle numbers are 13 and 14.

Step 3: Calculate the average of the two middle numbers.

Conclusion

Comparing our result to the given options, 13.5 matches option B.

Exam Tip

Always count the number of items in your data set first. If the count is odd, the median is just the middle number. If the count is even, you must average the two middle numbers. Don't forget to re-count your list after sorting to ensure you haven't accidentally left out a number!