What is a deviation in statistical terms?

A deviation in statistical terms specifically refers to the difference between an individual sample value and the mean of the sample set. This is a foundational concept in statistics, as deviations provide insight into how much each individual data point varies from the average. By analyzing these deviations, one can understand the spread and distribution of the data, which is crucial for conducting quality control and statistical analyses.

The calculation of deviations is important for determining measures such as variance and standard deviation, which help quantify the variability within a data set. When assessing quality control processes, identifying and analyzing deviations can help in recognizing trends, pinpointing issues, or confirming that processes are operating within specified limits. This makes it a vital concept for a QC manager to grasp and utilize in the context of quality assurance and control activities.