Biostatistics: practice question

A PSM question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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PSM · Biostatistics

Sample item

Which central measure is least influenced by extreme outliers?

AMeanBMedianCRangeDVariance

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

B. Median

The median depends on rank order rather than the magnitude of extreme values, making it more robust than the mean for skewed distributions.

Option by option

A. Mean
Mean can be pulled strongly by extreme values.
B. Median (correct)
Correct: median is robust to extreme outliers.
C. Range
Range is defined by extreme values.
D. Variance
Variance measures spread and is also outlier sensitive.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

Questions about this PSM question

What is the answer to this PSM question?

The best answer is B, Median. The median depends on rank order rather than the magnitude of extreme values, making it more robust than the mean for skewed distributions.

Why is "Mean" not the answer?

Mean can be pulled strongly by extreme values.

Why is "Range" not the answer?

Range is defined by extreme values.

Why is "Variance" not the answer?

Variance measures spread and is also outlier sensitive.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Biostatistics in PSM. The correct option holds because: Correct: median is robust to extreme outliers.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Biostatistics?

Practise biostatistics with small calculations until sensitivity, predictive values and risk measures are automatic. Then use the flashcards and the other PSM questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.