Description: The interquartile range (IQR) is a statistical measure of dispersion that represents the difference between the third quartile (Q3) and the first quartile (Q1) of a data set. This indicator is fundamental in statistical analysis as it provides a clear view of data variability, excluding outliers that can distort other measures of dispersion, such as standard deviation. The IQR is calculated by subtracting the value of the first quartile from the value of the third quartile, resulting in a number that reflects the range in which the central half of the data lies. This measure is particularly useful in graphical data representation, such as box plots, where quartiles are visualized and potential outliers are identified. By focusing on the dispersion of the central half of the data, the interquartile range becomes a valuable tool for understanding data distribution and making comparisons between different data sets. Its simplicity and effectiveness make it indispensable in applied statistics, allowing analysts and data scientists to make informed decisions based on the inherent variability of the data they are studying.
