Calculadora de Z-score
- Created by
- Renato Passos, Eng. de Software
- Reviewed by
- Renato Passos, Eng. de Software
Last updated: Apr 18, 2026
Formula
z = (x − μ) / σ
About this calculator
The Z-score Calculator is a statistical tool that computes the standardized score of a value relative to a normal distribution. The z-score indicates how many standard deviations a data point is above or below the mean. The formula used is z = (x − μ) / σ, where x is the observed value, μ is the population mean, and σ is the standard deviation. This calculation is essential for comparing data from different distributions or identifying outliers.
How it works: you enter the value x, the mean, and the standard deviation. The calculator applies the formula and returns the z-score. This number can be used to find the cumulative probability in the standard normal table. For example, a z-score of 1.5 means the value is 1.5 standard deviations above the mean. The tool is useful for statistics students, researchers, and professionals who analyze normalized data.
When to use: in hypothesis testing, to standardize exam scores (like ENEM or SAT), in quality control to detect out-of-spec parts, or in finance to assess investment risk (Altman Z-score). It is also used in psychometrics to interpret IQ tests. The calculator simplifies the manual process and avoids calculation errors.
Cautions: the z-score assumes the data follows a normal distribution. If the distribution is highly skewed, the result may be misleading. Additionally, use population mean and standard deviation (not sample) for accuracy. Ensure the entered values are coherent: the mean should be within typical values and the standard deviation must be positive.
Frequently asked questions
What does a negative z-score mean?
A negative z-score indicates that the value is below the mean. The more negative, the further below the mean.
Can I use the calculator for non-normal data?
Yes, but the z-score is just a numerical standardization. Probabilistic interpretation (percentile) is only valid for normal distributions.
What is the difference between z-score and T-score?
A T-score is a transformation of the z-score to a scale with mean 50 and standard deviation 10, used in psychological tests. The z-score has mean 0 and standard deviation 1.
How do I interpret a z-score of 2?
A z-score of 2 means the value is 2 standard deviations above the mean. In a normal distribution, this corresponds approximately to the 97.7th percentile.
Does the calculator work for samples?
The formula uses population parameters. For samples, use the sample mean and standard deviation, but remember that the sample standard deviation is an estimate.