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How to Calculate Percent Error

Calculate the percentage error between observed and actual.

The Formula

|Observed-Actual|/Actual × 100

The percent error formula uses the mathematical relationship: |Observed-Actual|/Actual × 100. Each variable in the formula represents a measurable quantity that affects the final result.

Step-by-Step Method

  1. 1Identify all input values needed for the percent error calculation.
  2. 2Substitute your known values into the formula: |Observed-Actual|/Actual × 100.
  3. 3Perform the arithmetic operations in the correct order (PEMDAS/BODMAS).
  4. 4Check that your result has the correct units and is within a reasonable range.
  5. 5Verify using the interactive Percent Error Calculator to confirm your answer.

Related Topics

percent errorerroraccuracy

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Skip the manual math — get instant results with our free Percent Error calculator.

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