In statistics, we classify data into intervals called classes. These can be open-ended or close-ended, depending on whether the boundaries are clearly defined. Understanding these is essential for accurate data interpretation.

🔹 What is an Open-Ended Class?

An open-ended class has no clearly defined lower or upper limit.

🧾 Examples:

• Less than 10

• More than 70

• Below 5

• 80 and above

🛠 Used When:

• Dealing with extreme values

• Upper/lower boundary is uncertain

• Simplifying large data ranges

⚠ Limitations:

• Mean, median, and other statistical measures become difficult to calculate

• Cannot determine class width accurately

• Not suitable for precise analysis

🔹 What is a Close-Ended Class?

A close-ended class has both lower and upper limits clearly defined.

🧾 Examples:

• 10–19

• 20–29

• 30–39

✅ Benefits:

• Easy to calculate mean, median, and mode

• Useful in graphical representations

• Preferred for accuracy in statistics

🔁 Comparison Table:

📌 Conclusion:

• Use close-ended classes for detailed analysis and calculation.

• Use open-ended classes when data includes outliers or undefined limits, but avoid them in statistical computation when precision is required.