One Sample Z Test Calculator

Test means against known population variance accurately. Inspect z scores, p-values, and confidence intervals instantly. Visualize rejection regions clearly with flexible tails and significance.

Calculator Inputs

Enter either sample mean and sample size, or provide raw sample values. When raw values are entered, the page computes the mean and sample size automatically.

Example Data Table

This example shows a process quality sample with a known population standard deviation. You can paste these values into the raw data field.

Observation Measured Value Observation Measured Value
151.2753.6
252.8850.9
354.1952.4
449.81053.2
552.61154.0
651.91252.1

Formula Used

Test statistic: z = (x̄ − μ0) / (σ / √n)

Standard error: SE = σ / √n

Confidence interval: x̄ ± zα/2 × SE

Decision rule: Reject H0 when the observed z enters the rejection region defined by α and the selected tail direction.

Use a one sample z test when the population standard deviation is known and you want to test whether a sample mean differs from a hypothesized population mean. The page calculates z score, p value, critical values, margin of error, confidence interval, and a decision summary.

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Enter a label for your dataset to make exports easier to track.
  2. Provide the hypothesized mean, known population standard deviation, and significance level.
  3. Enter either the sample mean and sample size, or paste raw sample values.
  4. Select a two-tailed, left-tailed, or right-tailed alternative hypothesis.
  5. Choose the number of decimal places for the output.
  6. Press Run Z Test to display the result block above the form.
  7. Review the metrics, confidence interval, and normal curve chart.
  8. Use the export buttons to save the output as CSV or PDF.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When should I use a one sample z test?

Use it when you want to compare one sample mean against a target mean and the population standard deviation is known or treated as known.

2. What is the difference between a z test and a t test?

A z test uses a known population standard deviation. A t test uses the sample standard deviation and a t distribution, especially for smaller samples.

3. Can I paste raw sample data instead of a mean?

Yes. When raw values are provided, the page automatically calculates the sample mean and sample size, then runs the test with your known population standard deviation.

4. What does the p value tell me?

The p value measures how extreme your sample result looks if the null hypothesis were true. Smaller values provide stronger evidence against the null hypothesis.

5. Why does the calculator still show a confidence interval for one-tailed tests?

The interval is useful as a summary estimate of the sample mean. The formal hypothesis decision still follows the selected one-tailed rejection rule.

6. What is the effect size in this calculator?

It is the standardized mean difference, computed as (x̄ − μ0) divided by the known population standard deviation. It helps describe practical magnitude.

7. What happens if I change alpha?

Changing alpha updates the rejection region, critical values, and confidence level. A smaller alpha makes rejection harder and widens the confidence interval.

8. Why might my result fail to reject H0?

Your z statistic may not be large enough in the selected direction, or the p value may be greater than alpha. That means evidence is not strong enough.

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Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.