Chapter 9
Normalizing the Normal Distribution
IN THIS CHAPTER
Reviewing the basics of the normal and standard normal (Z) distributions
Finding probabilities for the normal and standard normal distributions
Calculating percentiles
The normal distribution is a widely used probability model for many random phenomena whose results follow the well-known bell-shaped pattern. Its uses go from modeling real-world phenomena to quality-control scenarios. To understand how it works is very important for statistics.
In this chapter, you explore the normal distribution’s bell-shaped pattern and how to use it to answer questions about probabilities for the normal distribution. As part of the process, you examine and use the standard normal distribution. You also practice using the normal distribution to find percentiles.
Charting the Basics of the Normal Distribution ...
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A percentile is a value of X such that a given percentage of values lie below it. For example, if your results are in the 99th percentile on a national achievement test, 99 percent of the people taking the test scored lower than you.