Normal distribution parameters

Two parameters, µ and σ, define the shape of a normal distribution. These parameters are the distribution's mean and standard deviation. You should be able to estimate the parameters from the histogram (pdf) of the distribution.

Estimating the standard deviation of a normal distribution

From the shape of a normal distribution's pdf (histogram), you should be able to estimate the values of the two parameters 'by eye'. In a similar way, given the values of µ and σ, you should be able to roughly sketch the normal distribution.

It is fairly easy to estimate the mean of a normal distribution from its histogram (pdf) — it corresponds to the highest point of the normal curve. Estimating the standard deviation is a bit harder.


Sketching a normal distribution

In a similar way, given the values of µ and σ, you should be able to roughly sketch a normal distribution.

Use the pop-up menu then drag the arrows to sketch a normal distribution that roughly matches the mean and standard deviation given in the question.