Finding the sample size to estimate a mean to a given margin of error

Here, we want to obtain the sample size required to estimate a population parameter to a given margin of error. We will not use specific values but will find the number of samples required to estimate a mean with a confidence interval ±0.5 and ±1 standard deviation wide.

How to do it…

The following steps will identify the number of samples required to find an estimate of the population mean to a confidence interval of +/- 0.5 and +/-1 standard deviations wide:

  1. Go to the Stat menu, go to Power and Sample Size, and select Sample Size for Estimation….
  2. In the Parameter section, select Mean (Normal) from the dropdown.
  3. Under Planning Value, enter Standard deviation: as 1.
  4. In Margins of ...

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