The mean represents the arithmetic average, sensitive to outliers, while the median is the middle value, robust to skewed data.
In a box plot:
- Median is typically shown as a line inside the box; it divides the data into two equal halves.
- Mean (if shown) is often marked as a dot or a line; it reflects the center of mass of the data.
Key difference:
- Use the median to highlight the data's central tendency when skewed or with outliers.
- Use the mean if the data is symmetric and outliers are minimal.