Cumulative frequency distribution

Command:

Statistics Distribution plot Cumulative frequency distribution

Description

To obtain a cumulative frequency distribution, select Cumulative cumulative distribution in the menu and proceed as for Histogram.

In the dialog box for Cumulative frequency distribution, you can either select a Cumulative frequency polygon (ogive) or Cumulative dot plot, or both.

In addition you have the option to superimpose a Normal distribution curve on the diagram. The mean and standard deviation of this Normal distribution curve are those of the variable represented in the graph. When this option is selected the cumulative frequency distribution is plotted using a different algorithm, allowing comparison of the observed frequency distribution with the theoretical Normal distribution.

When you have completed the dialog box, click the OK button, or press the Enter key to obtain the graph.

In the next figures, some combinations of the possible selections are displayed.

When you want to display the cumulative frequency distribution of several variables in one graph, see Multiple variables graphs.

Literature

• Altman DG (1991) Practical statistics for medical research. London: Chapman and Hall.

See also

Multiple variables graphs
• Histogram
• Normal plot
• Dot plot
• Box-and-whisker plot
• Format graph
• Graph legend
• Add graphical objects
• Reference lines