Finding the median
Sort the numbers from smallest to largest. With an odd count, the median is the single middle value.
With an even count there is no single middle, so the median is the mean of the two values either side of the centre.
Worked example
For 4, 8, 15, 16, 23, 42 there are six numbers. The two middle values are 15 and 16, so the median is 15.5.
The mean of the same list is 18, higher than the median because the largest value, 42, pulls it up.
When the median is the better summary
The median ignores how far away the extremes are, so one very large value does not move it.
House prices and incomes are usually reported as medians for that reason. A mean would be dragged upwards by a few very high values.
Inputs for the median calculator
Your numbers
Separate the numbers with commas, spaces or new lines. A pasted spreadsheet column works as it is.
CALCULATOR QUESTIONS
Calculator for median questions
How do I find the median?
Put the numbers in order and take the middle one. With an even count, average the two middle values.
What is the median of 4, 8, 15, 16, 23 and 42?
15.5, the mean of the two middle values 15 and 16.
Does the order I type the numbers in matter?
No. The calculator sorts them before finding the middle.
Can the median be a value that is not in the list?
Yes, whenever the count is even. The median of 1 and 4 is 2.5.