How are measures of central tendency best described?

Measures of central tendency are best described as typical or expected values because they summarize a set of data by identifying the central point within that data set. This central point is represented by three primary measures: the mean, median, and mode. Each of these measures provides insight into the general trend or average of the data.

The mean calculates the average, the median identifies the middle score when all values are arranged in order, and the mode identifies the most frequently occurring value. Together, these measures help to capture the essence of the data's overall distribution, offering a concise representation of its typical characteristics.

In contrast, unusual or extreme values, statistical outliers, and variations in data focus on specific aspects of the data that either deviate from the norm or describe its spread, rather than providing a singular focus on the central tendency. By concentrating on typical or expected values, measures of central tendency serve as foundational tools in statistical analysis, enabling practitioners to understand and communicate key characteristics of data effectively.