The standard deviation is used in conjunction with the $\mathrm{mean}$ to describe which aspect of a data set?

• A. The spread or variability of the data around the $\mathrm{mean}$
• B. The total number of data points in the set
• C. The highest and lowest values in the data set
• D. The sum of all data values

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the mean provides a measure of central tendency, indicating the average value of the data set.
2. Recognize that the standard deviation quantifies how much the data values deviate or vary from the mean on average.
3. Recall that a small standard deviation means data points are close to the mean, while a large standard deviation indicates data points are spread out over a wider range.
4. Identify that the standard deviation, together with the mean, describes the spread or variability of the data around the mean, not the total count, range, or sum of the data.
5. Conclude that the correct interpretation of standard deviation in this context is to describe the spread or variability of the data around the mean.