The step-by-step z-score calculator calculates a z-score based on the z-score formula.  First, enter values for the mean, standard deviation, and data value.  The calculator will then give you an answer, and guide you through a solution so you can learn to solve this problem on your own. 

Z-Score Calculator

Answer: 1.5


Solution:

Depending on what your distribution represents, start by either writing the formula for the z-score of a population: $$z = {{x-{\mu}} \over {\sigma}}$$

or the formula for the z-score of a sample: $$z = {{x-{\bar{x}}} \over s}$$

Substitute in values for this problem (data value, mean, and standard deviation) into the formula: $$z = {{188 - 170} \over 12}$$

If you are using a calculator, make sure you put the numerator in parentheses to ensure it is evaluated first. Here, we round the answer to 2 decimal places. $$z = \frac{(188 - 170)}{12}$$ $$z = 1.5$$