Quick guide
How to use this calculator
- Enter the observations, probabilities, model parameters, or summary statistics requested by the visible labels.
- Keep every value on the same scale and confirm that the selected sampling relationship, distribution, and tail convention match the question you are investigating.
- Read the result together with its assumptions and interpretation. Statistical output summarizes uncertainty under a model; it does not repair biased data or establish causation.
Calculation method
How the minimum detectable effect calculator works
MDE=(zα+zβ)·SE, with SE determined by one-sample or equal-group design.
Effects smaller than the MDE are not impossible; the design simply has less than the selected power to detect them.
Worked example
Minimum Detectable Effect example
With SD 10 and 64 observations per group, an equal-group design detects roughly a 5-unit difference at 80% power.
MDE=(zα+zβ)·SE, with SE determined by one-sample or equal-group design.
Supported inputs
Precision and limits
Model and design
Uses a two-sided normal approximation, fixed SD, independent units, and equal group sizes where applicable.
Numerical scope
Inputs use double-precision numerical methods with guarded domains. Datasets accept up to 10,000 finite plain-decimal values. Extremely large parameters or probabilities deep in a numerical tail may require specialist statistical software.
Interpretation
Effects smaller than the MDE are not impossible; the design simply has less than the selected power to detect them.
Decision boundary
The calculator does not validate how data were collected, diagnose dependence or bias, choose a scientifically meaningful effect, or replace review by a qualified statistician for consequential research, medical, regulatory, safety, or policy decisions.
Privacy
Entered values and calculated results stay in this browser and are not sent to an analytics service.
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