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Normal Probability Plot Explorer

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About This MicroSim

Assess whether data follows a normal distribution by comparing histograms and normal probability plots (QQ plots).

How to Use

  • Select a dataset type: Approximately Normal, Right Skewed, Left Skewed, Heavy Tails, Light Tails, Uniform, or Bimodal
  • Adjust sample size (n) slider from 20 to 200
  • Click New Sample to generate fresh random data
  • Toggle Ref Line to show/hide the reference line on QQ plot
  • Toggle Overlay to show/hide ideal normal curve on histogram

Key Insights

  • Normal data: Points cluster tightly around the reference line in QQ plot
  • Right-skewed: Points curve upward at the right end
  • Left-skewed: Points curve downward at the left end
  • Heavy tails: S-shaped curve (deviations at both ends)
  • Light tails: Points cluster more tightly than expected
  • The "Normality Verdict" provides automatic assessment with explanation

Lesson Plan

Learning Objective

Students will assess whether data follows a normal distribution by interpreting histograms and normal probability plots (Bloom's Taxonomy: Analyzing, Evaluating).