Frequency and Relative Frequency Tables: How to Make and Read Them
A lesson in one-variable frequency and relative-frequency tables that moves from intuition and definitions to worked reasoning, error correction, and independent practice.
Lesson Goals: Frequency And Relative Frequency Table
A one-variable relative frequency divides a category count by the total number of observed units, and cumulative percentages are meaningful only for ordered categories.
Frequency
Frequency in frequency and relative frequency table: The frequency is 28; the relative frequency is 0.3544, or 35.4%. The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference.
Worked reasoning
For Frequency in frequency and relative frequency table, A constructed data set for a reading-speed investigation records 28 observations in a target category out of 79. Use frequency to summarize the category.
When the idea is valid
For Frequency in frequency and relative frequency table, Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations.
Misconception to remove
For Frequency in frequency and relative frequency table, reject this error: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Relative frequency
Relative frequency in frequency and relative frequency table: The frequency is 26; the relative frequency is 0.3133, or 31.3%. The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference.
Worked reasoning
For Relative frequency in frequency and relative frequency table, A constructed data set for a package-delivery sample records 26 observations in a target category out of 83. Use relative frequency to summarize the category.
When the idea is valid
For Relative frequency in frequency and relative frequency table, Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations.
Misconception to remove
For Relative frequency in frequency and relative frequency table, reject this error: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Proportions and percentages
Proportions and percentages in frequency and relative frequency table: The frequency is 39; the relative frequency is 0.6000, or 60.0%. The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference.
Worked reasoning
For Proportions and percentages in frequency and relative frequency table, A constructed data set for a battery-life laboratory trial records 39 observations in a target category out of 65. Use proportions and percentages to summarize the category.
When the idea is valid
For Proportions and percentages in frequency and relative frequency table, Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations.
Misconception to remove
For Proportions and percentages in frequency and relative frequency table, reject this error: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Cumulative frequency
Cumulative frequency in frequency and relative frequency table: The frequency is 44; the relative frequency is 0.5432, or 54.3%. The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference.
Worked reasoning
For Cumulative frequency in frequency and relative frequency table, A constructed data set for a battery-life laboratory trial records 44 observations in a target category out of 81. Use cumulative frequency to summarize the category.
When the idea is valid
For Cumulative frequency in frequency and relative frequency table, Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations.
Misconception to remove
For Cumulative frequency in frequency and relative frequency table, reject this error: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Hand calculations
Hand calculations in frequency and relative frequency table: The frequency is 28; the relative frequency is 0.5490, or 54.9%. The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference.
Worked reasoning
For Hand calculations in frequency and relative frequency table, A constructed data set for a greenhouse germination experiment records 28 observations in a target category out of 51. Use hand calculations to summarize the category.
When the idea is valid
For Hand calculations in frequency and relative frequency table, Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations.
Misconception to remove
For Hand calculations in frequency and relative frequency table, reject this error: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Calculator procedures
Calculator procedures in frequency and relative frequency table: The frequency is 34; the relative frequency is 0.5397, or 54.0%. The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference.
Worked reasoning
For Calculator procedures in frequency and relative frequency table, A constructed data set for a commuter route study records 34 observations in a target category out of 63. Use calculator procedures to summarize the category.
When the idea is valid
For Calculator procedures in frequency and relative frequency table, Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations.
Misconception to remove
For Calculator procedures in frequency and relative frequency table, reject this error: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Missing categories
Missing categories in frequency and relative frequency table: The frequency is 24; the relative frequency is 0.5581, or 55.8%. The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference.
Worked reasoning
For Missing categories in frequency and relative frequency table, A constructed data set for a recycling-behavior survey records 24 observations in a target category out of 43. Use missing categories to summarize the category.
When the idea is valid
For Missing categories in frequency and relative frequency table, Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations.
Misconception to remove
For Missing categories in frequency and relative frequency table, reject this error: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Misleading summaries
Misleading summaries in frequency and relative frequency table: The frequency is 41; the relative frequency is 0.5125, or 51.2%. The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference.
Worked reasoning
For Misleading summaries in frequency and relative frequency table, A constructed data set for a quality-control inspection records 41 observations in a target category out of 80. Use misleading summaries to summarize the category.
When the idea is valid
For Misleading summaries in frequency and relative frequency table, Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations.
Misconception to remove
For Misleading summaries in frequency and relative frequency table, reject this error: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Formula and Notation Reference
Relative frequency
Relative frequency in Frequency And Relative Frequency Table: This expression belongs specifically to one-variable frequency and relative-frequency tables; define every symbol and apply the scope rule for counts, proportions, percentages, cumulative summaries, and display choice before calculation.
Guided, Independent and Challenge Practice
Every question in Frequency and Relative Frequency Tables: How to Make and Read Them is newly written from the revised framework and the logic visible in public College Board materials. Constructed numerical settings are identified as instructional scenarios and are never represented as measurements from a real population. No released or secure question wording is reproduced.
Easy Practice
Easy 1: Missing categories
Question P26-Easy-1. A constructed data set for a water-filtration experiment records 16 observations in a target category out of 41. Use missing categories to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Easy-1. The frequency is 16; the relative frequency is 0.3902, or 39.0%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Easy 2: Misleading summaries
Question P26-Easy-2. A constructed data set for a greenhouse germination experiment records 18 observations in a target category out of 42. Use misleading summaries to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Easy-2. The frequency is 18; the relative frequency is 0.4286, or 42.9%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Easy 3: Frequency
Question P26-Easy-3. A constructed data set for a reading-speed investigation records 27 observations in a target category out of 47. Use frequency to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Easy-3. The frequency is 27; the relative frequency is 0.5745, or 57.4%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Easy 4: Relative frequency
Question P26-Easy-4. A constructed data set for a manufacturing fill-volume check records 45 observations in a target category out of 75. Use relative frequency to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Easy-4. The frequency is 45; the relative frequency is 0.6000, or 60.0%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Easy 5: Proportions and percentages
Question P26-Easy-5. A constructed data set for a city bus arrival investigation records 55 observations in a target category out of 99. Use proportions and percentages to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Easy-5. The frequency is 55; the relative frequency is 0.5556, or 55.6%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Easy 6: Cumulative frequency
Question P26-Easy-6. A constructed data set for a greenhouse germination experiment records 31 observations in a target category out of 57. Use cumulative frequency to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Easy-6. The frequency is 31; the relative frequency is 0.5439, or 54.4%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Easy 7: Hand calculations
Question P26-Easy-7. A constructed data set for a city bus arrival investigation records 41 observations in a target category out of 78. Use hand calculations to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Easy-7. The frequency is 41; the relative frequency is 0.5256, or 52.6%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Easy 8: Calculator procedures
Question P26-Easy-8. A constructed data set for a battery-life laboratory trial records 30 observations in a target category out of 97. Use calculator procedures to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Easy-8. The frequency is 30; the relative frequency is 0.3093, or 30.9%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Easy 9: Missing categories
Question P26-Easy-9. A constructed data set for a reading-speed investigation records 38 observations in a target category out of 64. Use missing categories to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Easy-9. The frequency is 38; the relative frequency is 0.5938, or 59.4%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Easy 10: Misleading summaries
Question P26-Easy-10. A constructed data set for a reading-speed investigation records 25 observations in a target category out of 79. Use misleading summaries to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Easy-10. The frequency is 25; the relative frequency is 0.3165, or 31.6%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Easy 11: Frequency
Question P26-Easy-11. A constructed data set for a campus dining survey records 22 observations in a target category out of 59. Use frequency to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Easy-11. The frequency is 22; the relative frequency is 0.3729, or 37.3%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Easy 12: Relative frequency
Question P26-Easy-12. A constructed data set for a battery-life laboratory trial records 46 observations in a target category out of 98. Use relative frequency to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Easy-12. The frequency is 46; the relative frequency is 0.4694, or 46.9%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Easy 13: Proportions and percentages
Question P26-Easy-13. A constructed data set for a seedling-growth comparison records 47 observations in a target category out of 80. Use proportions and percentages to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Easy-13. The frequency is 47; the relative frequency is 0.5875, or 58.8%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Easy 14: Cumulative frequency
Question P26-Easy-14. A constructed data set for a seedling-growth comparison records 37 observations in a target category out of 68. Use cumulative frequency to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Easy-14. The frequency is 37; the relative frequency is 0.5441, or 54.4%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Easy 15: Hand calculations
Question P26-Easy-15. A constructed data set for a seedling-growth comparison records 21 observations in a target category out of 70. Use hand calculations to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Easy-15. The frequency is 21; the relative frequency is 0.3000, or 30.0%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Easy 16: Calculator procedures
Question P26-Easy-16. A constructed data set for a battery-life laboratory trial records 30 observations in a target category out of 54. Use calculator procedures to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Easy-16. The frequency is 30; the relative frequency is 0.5556, or 55.6%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Easy 17: Missing categories
Question P26-Easy-17. A constructed data set for a seedling-growth comparison records 25 observations in a target category out of 69. Use missing categories to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Easy-17. The frequency is 25; the relative frequency is 0.3623, or 36.2%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Easy 18: Misleading summaries
Question P26-Easy-18. A constructed data set for a recycling-behavior survey records 21 observations in a target category out of 66. Use misleading summaries to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Easy-18. The frequency is 21; the relative frequency is 0.3182, or 31.8%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Tough Practice
Tough 1: Frequency
Question P26-Tough-1. A constructed data set for a campus dining survey records 19 observations in a target category out of 57. Use frequency to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Tough-1. The frequency is 19; the relative frequency is 0.3333, or 33.3%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Tough 2: Relative frequency
Question P26-Tough-2. A constructed data set for a commuter route study records 39 observations in a target category out of 98. Use relative frequency to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Tough-2. The frequency is 39; the relative frequency is 0.3980, or 39.8%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Tough 3: Proportions and percentages
Question P26-Tough-3. A constructed data set for a campus dining survey records 41 observations in a target category out of 88. Use proportions and percentages to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Tough-3. The frequency is 41; the relative frequency is 0.4659, or 46.6%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Tough 4: Cumulative frequency
Question P26-Tough-4. A constructed data set for a city bus arrival investigation records 30 observations in a target category out of 66. Use cumulative frequency to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Tough-4. The frequency is 30; the relative frequency is 0.4545, or 45.5%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Tough 5: Hand calculations
Question P26-Tough-5. A constructed data set for a city bus arrival investigation records 36 observations in a target category out of 77. Use hand calculations to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Tough-5. The frequency is 36; the relative frequency is 0.4675, or 46.8%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Tough 6: Calculator procedures
Question P26-Tough-6. A constructed data set for a campus dining survey records 27 observations in a target category out of 90. Use calculator procedures to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Tough-6. The frequency is 27; the relative frequency is 0.3000, or 30.0%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Tough 7: Missing categories
Question P26-Tough-7. A constructed data set for a reading-speed investigation records 20 observations in a target category out of 63. Use missing categories to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Tough-7. The frequency is 20; the relative frequency is 0.3175, or 31.7%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Tough 8: Misleading summaries
Question P26-Tough-8. A constructed data set for a commuter route study records 41 observations in a target category out of 91. Use misleading summaries to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Tough-8. The frequency is 41; the relative frequency is 0.4505, or 45.1%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Tough 9: Frequency
Question P26-Tough-9. A constructed data set for a water-filtration experiment records 16 observations in a target category out of 50. Use frequency to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Tough-9. The frequency is 16; the relative frequency is 0.3200, or 32.0%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Tough 10: Relative frequency
Question P26-Tough-10. A constructed data set for a city bus arrival investigation records 15 observations in a target category out of 40. Use relative frequency to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Tough-10. The frequency is 15; the relative frequency is 0.3750, or 37.5%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Tough 11: Proportions and percentages
Question P26-Tough-11. A constructed data set for a water-filtration experiment records 49 observations in a target category out of 97. Use proportions and percentages to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Tough-11. The frequency is 49; the relative frequency is 0.5052, or 50.5%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Tough 12: Cumulative frequency
Question P26-Tough-12. A constructed data set for a battery-life laboratory trial records 20 observations in a target category out of 63. Use cumulative frequency to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Tough-12. The frequency is 20; the relative frequency is 0.3175, or 31.7%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Tough 13: Hand calculations
Question P26-Tough-13. A constructed data set for a school library checkout study records 30 observations in a target category out of 61. Use hand calculations to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Tough-13. The frequency is 30; the relative frequency is 0.4918, or 49.2%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Tough 14: Calculator procedures
Question P26-Tough-14. A constructed data set for a water-filtration experiment records 30 observations in a target category out of 100. Use calculator procedures to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Tough-14. The frequency is 30; the relative frequency is 0.3000, or 30.0%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Tough 15: Missing categories
Question P26-Tough-15. A constructed data set for a quality-control inspection records 24 observations in a target category out of 70. Use missing categories to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Tough-15. The frequency is 24; the relative frequency is 0.3429, or 34.3%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Tough 16: Misleading summaries
Question P26-Tough-16. A constructed data set for a school library checkout study records 28 observations in a target category out of 63. Use misleading summaries to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Tough-16. The frequency is 28; the relative frequency is 0.4444, or 44.4%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Tough 17: Frequency
Question P26-Tough-17. A constructed data set for a campus dining survey records 22 observations in a target category out of 59. Use frequency to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Tough-17. The frequency is 22; the relative frequency is 0.3729, or 37.3%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Tough 18: Relative frequency
Question P26-Tough-18. A constructed data set for a city bus arrival investigation records 32 observations in a target category out of 89. Use relative frequency to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Tough-18. The frequency is 32; the relative frequency is 0.3596, or 36.0%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Toughest Practice
Toughest 1: Misleading summaries
Question P26-Toughest-1. A constructed data set for a website response-time study records 58 observations in a target category out of 98. Use misleading summaries to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Toughest-1. The frequency is 58; the relative frequency is 0.5918, or 59.2%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Toughest 2: Frequency
Question P26-Toughest-2. A constructed data set for a city bus arrival investigation records 39 observations in a target category out of 81. Use frequency to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Toughest-2. The frequency is 39; the relative frequency is 0.4815, or 48.1%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Toughest 3: Relative frequency
Question P26-Toughest-3. A constructed data set for a greenhouse germination experiment records 31 observations in a target category out of 76. Use relative frequency to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Toughest-3. The frequency is 31; the relative frequency is 0.4079, or 40.8%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Toughest 4: Proportions and percentages
Question P26-Toughest-4. A constructed data set for a city bus arrival investigation records 28 observations in a target category out of 79. Use proportions and percentages to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Toughest-4. The frequency is 28; the relative frequency is 0.3544, or 35.4%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Toughest 5: Cumulative frequency
Question P26-Toughest-5. A constructed data set for a quality-control inspection records 28 observations in a target category out of 74. Use cumulative frequency to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Toughest-5. The frequency is 28; the relative frequency is 0.3784, or 37.8%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Toughest 6: Hand calculations
Question P26-Toughest-6. A constructed data set for an online-course completion sample records 16 observations in a target category out of 50. Use hand calculations to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Toughest-6. The frequency is 16; the relative frequency is 0.3200, or 32.0%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Toughest 7: Calculator procedures
Question P26-Toughest-7. A constructed data set for a water-filtration experiment records 32 observations in a target category out of 60. Use calculator procedures to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Toughest-7. The frequency is 32; the relative frequency is 0.5333, or 53.3%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Toughest 8: Missing categories
Question P26-Toughest-8. A constructed data set for a school library checkout study records 25 observations in a target category out of 54. Use missing categories to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Toughest-8. The frequency is 25; the relative frequency is 0.4630, or 46.3%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Toughest 9: Misleading summaries
Question P26-Toughest-9. A constructed data set for a greenhouse germination experiment records 49 observations in a target category out of 83. Use misleading summaries to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Toughest-9. The frequency is 49; the relative frequency is 0.5904, or 59.0%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Toughest 10: Frequency
Question P26-Toughest-10. A constructed data set for a package-delivery sample records 28 observations in a target category out of 70. Use frequency to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Toughest-10. The frequency is 28; the relative frequency is 0.4000, or 40.0%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Toughest 11: Relative frequency
Question P26-Toughest-11. A constructed data set for a school library checkout study records 39 observations in a target category out of 95. Use relative frequency to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Toughest-11. The frequency is 39; the relative frequency is 0.4105, or 41.1%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Toughest 12: Proportions and percentages
Question P26-Toughest-12. A constructed data set for a public-parks visitor survey records 29 observations in a target category out of 75. Use proportions and percentages to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Toughest-12. The frequency is 29; the relative frequency is 0.3867, or 38.7%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Toughest 13: Cumulative frequency
Question P26-Toughest-13. A constructed data set for a manufacturing fill-volume check records 22 observations in a target category out of 40. Use cumulative frequency to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Toughest-13. The frequency is 22; the relative frequency is 0.5500, or 55.0%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Toughest 14: Hand calculations
Question P26-Toughest-14. A constructed data set for a classroom memory study records 14 observations in a target category out of 47. Use hand calculations to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Toughest-14. The frequency is 14; the relative frequency is 0.2979, or 29.8%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Toughest 15: Calculator procedures
Question P26-Toughest-15. A constructed data set for a tutoring-program evaluation records 28 observations in a target category out of 81. Use calculator procedures to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Toughest-15. The frequency is 28; the relative frequency is 0.3457, or 34.6%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Toughest 16: Missing categories
Question P26-Toughest-16. A constructed data set for a reading-speed investigation records 32 observations in a target category out of 88. Use missing categories to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Toughest-16. The frequency is 32; the relative frequency is 0.3636, or 36.4%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Toughest 17: Misleading summaries
Question P26-Toughest-17. A constructed data set for a reading-speed investigation records 32 observations in a target category out of 85. Use misleading summaries to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Toughest-17. The frequency is 32; the relative frequency is 0.3765, or 37.6%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
Toughest 18: Frequency
Question P26-Toughest-18. A constructed data set for a recycling-behavior survey records 29 observations in a target category out of 67. Use frequency to summarize the category.
Worked solution and validity check
Worked solution P26-Toughest-18. The frequency is 29; the relative frequency is 0.4328, or 43.3%. Interpretation: The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. Validity: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. Error to reject: Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable.
AP Response and Publication Checklist
| Audit point | Required evidence for frequency and relative frequency table |
|---|---|
| Scope | Leave joint, marginal, and conditional frequencies for P27. |
| Method or source | A one-variable relative frequency divides a category count by the total number of observed units, and cumulative percentages are meaningful only for ordered categories. |
| Calculation | |
| Interpretation | The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. |
| Validity | Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations. |
| Correction | Do not divide by the number of categories or omit a zero-count category that belongs to the defined variable. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How does frequency work in frequency and relative frequency table?
Answer for frequency and relative frequency table and Frequency. The frequency is 20; the relative frequency is 0.3774, or 37.7%. The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. The required validity evidence is: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations.
How does relative frequency work in frequency and relative frequency table?
Answer for frequency and relative frequency table and Relative frequency. The frequency is 20; the relative frequency is 0.5000, or 50.0%. The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. The required validity evidence is: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations.
How does proportions and percentages work in frequency and relative frequency table?
Answer for frequency and relative frequency table and Proportions and percentages. The frequency is 22; the relative frequency is 0.4583, or 45.8%. The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. The required validity evidence is: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations.
How does cumulative frequency work in frequency and relative frequency table?
Answer for frequency and relative frequency table and Cumulative frequency. The frequency is 22; the relative frequency is 0.3929, or 39.3%. The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. The required validity evidence is: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations.
How does hand calculations work in frequency and relative frequency table?
Answer for frequency and relative frequency table and Hand calculations. The frequency is 41; the relative frequency is 0.4271, or 42.7%. The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. The required validity evidence is: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations.
How does calculator procedures work in frequency and relative frequency table?
Answer for frequency and relative frequency table and Calculator procedures. The frequency is 39; the relative frequency is 0.3980, or 39.8%. The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. The required validity evidence is: Categories should be mutually exclusive for a one-response table, and the denominator must include all valid observations.
How does frequency table and relative frequency table connect to Frequency And Relative Frequency Table?
frequency table and relative frequency table within frequency and relative frequency table. The frequency is 37; the relative frequency is 0.3978, or 39.8%. The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. For Frequency, the controlling scope is: Leave joint, marginal, and conditional frequencies for P27.
How does absolute and relative frequency tables connect to Frequency And Relative Frequency Table?
absolute and relative frequency tables within frequency and relative frequency table. The frequency is 36; the relative frequency is 0.4615, or 46.2%. The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. For Relative frequency, the controlling scope is: Leave joint, marginal, and conditional frequencies for P27.
How does difference between a frequency table and a relative frequency table connect to Frequency And Relative Frequency Table?
difference between a frequency table and a relative frequency table within frequency and relative frequency table. The frequency is 29; the relative frequency is 0.5000, or 50.0%. The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. For Proportions and percentages, the controlling scope is: Leave joint, marginal, and conditional frequencies for P27.
How does difference between frequency table and relative frequency table connect to Frequency And Relative Frequency Table?
difference between frequency table and relative frequency table within frequency and relative frequency table. The frequency is 25; the relative frequency is 0.3333, or 33.3%. The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. For Cumulative frequency, the controlling scope is: Leave joint, marginal, and conditional frequencies for P27.
How does frequency and relative frequency distribution table connect to Frequency And Relative Frequency Table?
frequency and relative frequency distribution table within frequency and relative frequency table. The frequency is 48; the relative frequency is 0.5647, or 56.5%. The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. For Hand calculations, the controlling scope is: Leave joint, marginal, and conditional frequencies for P27.
How does frequency and relative frequency table calculator connect to Frequency And Relative Frequency Table?
frequency and relative frequency table calculator within frequency and relative frequency table. The frequency is 25; the relative frequency is 0.4717, or 47.2%. The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. For Calculator procedures, the controlling scope is: Leave joint, marginal, and conditional frequencies for P27.
How does frequency and relative frequency tables connect to Frequency And Relative Frequency Table?
frequency and relative frequency tables within frequency and relative frequency table. The frequency is 53; the relative frequency is 0.5408, or 54.1%. The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. For Missing categories, the controlling scope is: Leave joint, marginal, and conditional frequencies for P27.
How does relative frequency and cumulative frequency table connect to Frequency And Relative Frequency Table?
relative frequency and cumulative frequency table within frequency and relative frequency table. The frequency is 36; the relative frequency is 0.4865, or 48.6%. The percentage describes the observed data set; it is not automatically a population estimate unless the collection design supports inference. For Misleading summaries, the controlling scope is: Leave joint, marginal, and conditional frequencies for P27.
Sources
Administrative and curricular statements in Frequency and Relative Frequency Tables: How to Make and Read Them were checked on July 18, 2026. The linked College Board pages control any later policy change; all instructional datasets in original questions are explicitly constructed rather than attributed to a real study.
Frequency And Relative Frequency Table Conclusion
A one-variable relative frequency divides a category count by the total number of observed units, and cumulative percentages are meaningful only for ordered categories. Mastery of frequency and relative frequency table therefore requires the exact evidence, mathematics, interpretation, and scope developed in this guide, while preserving this boundary: Leave joint, marginal, and conditional frequencies for P27.