How do you compute the mean of a data set?

To compute the mean of a data set, you need to establish the average of all the values present. The mean is calculated by taking the sum of all individual values within the data set and then dividing that total by the number of values.

This method works because the mean represents a central value that balances all data points. By summing the values, you obtain a total that is reflective of all individual contributions. Dividing by the number of values ensures that this total is evenly spread out across all entries, providing an accurate measure of the average.

The other methods described do not represent the calculation of the mean. For instance, calculating by subtracting the smallest value from the largest does not take into account the distribution or quantity of data, while averaging the median and mode does not apply directly to mean calculation. Lastly, multiplying the total count of numbers by an average value is misleading, as it implies a relationship that does not accurately reflect how the mean is derived.