Marketing Research and Insight Glossary

Definitions, common uses and explanations of 1,500+ key market research terms and phrases.

What is a Box Plot?

Research Topics:
Data Analysis
Content Type:
Glossary
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Box Plot Definition

A Box Plot is a graphical tool used to picture the data and possible outliers in the data.

A box plot displays the distribution of a dataset along with key statistical measures like the median, quartiles and potential outliers. A box plot, also called a box-and-whisker plot, shows data graphically, compares data across markets, pinpoints market trends and identifies potential anomalies. Data collected include the median, or central tendency of numerical data; quartiles, or spread and skewness of data; and potential outliers.

Who relies on a box plot?

A box plot provides an understanding of the distribution and characteristics of data in market-related contexts. Those findings are used by marketing researchers, data analysts and business professionals. This graphic tool identifies trends, compares datasets and uncover patterns across market segments or categories. It can be key in successful strategic planning and marketing campaigns.

Why should I care about a box plot?

Box plots illustrate complex data distributions in market research in an understandable, useful format. This tool allows users to quickly grasp the central tendencies, variations and potential outliers within market datasets.