Questions:

• What is the minimum number of data points needed to generate a normal distribution?
• Share an example of a data set with the minimum number of data points needed.
• Does it meet the first three conditions for a Normal Distribution?
• What are some examples that would cause it not to be a normal distribution?
• How would this change the outcome of the distribution?

Note:

A data set that satisfies the following four criteria is likely to have a nearly normal distribution.

1. Most data values are clustered near the mean, giving the distribution a well-defined single peak.
2. Data values are spread evenly around the mean, making the distribution symmetric
3. Larger deviations from the mean become increasingly rare, producing the tapering tails of the distribution.
4. Individual data values result from a combination of many different factors, such as genetic and environmental factors.

References

Bennett, J. O., Briggs, W. L. & Triola, M. F. (2017). Statistical reasoning for everyday life (5th ed.). Pearson Education