Continuity correction factor

Definition

The continuity correction factor is an adjustment made when a discrete distribution is approximated by a continuous distribution. It involves adding or subtracting 0.5 to the discrete variable to improve the approximation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The continuity correction factor is used primarily when approximating binomial distributions with normal distributions.
2. It adjusts for the difference between discrete and continuous data by shifting the interval by 0.5 units.
3. When using this factor, add or subtract 0.5 depending on whether you are dealing with cumulative probabilities or specific values.
4. It improves accuracy in statistical calculations, especially for small sample sizes or proportions close to 0 or 1.
5. The continuity correction is not necessary if the sample size is large enough for the Central Limit Theorem to provide an accurate approximation without it.

Review Questions

• What is the primary purpose of applying a continuity correction factor?
• In what situations should you apply a continuity correction when using a normal approximation?
• How does adding or subtracting 0.5 help in improving statistical calculations?

Related terms

Central Limit Theorem: A statistical theory that states that, given a sufficiently large sample size from a population with a finite level of variance, the mean of all samples will be approximately normally distributed.

Binomial Distribution: A probability distribution that summarizes the likelihood that a value will take one of two independent states across several trials.

Normal Distribution: A type of continuous probability distribution for a real-valued random variable, characterized by its bell-shaped curve symmetric about its mean.