Accuracy and Precision

The difference between accuracy and precision is illustrated Making a good measurement is a bit like hitting a
below. The bullseye in the target represents the true value target, and the chances of a good result that
of a measurement. makes sense are greatly increased if you make
several attempts.

low accuracy
but high precision Would you rely on a single measurement of the girth
of a snake?

Higher accuracy
but low precision

High repeatability suggests you have a good result, but if

you think that you have discovered a new phenomenon,
make sure other scientists reproduce the same
observations with their equipment!
There are many factors that can cause inaccuracy:

High accuracy and
high precision
Accuracy is a qualitative term that describes how close the
measurements are to the actual (true) value.
Precision describes the spread of these measurements
when repeated. A measurement that has high precision has
good repeatability.
Environmental
Inferior measuring equipment
Poor measuring techniques
Even when you are precise and accurate there will still be
some uncertainty in your measurements.
You can improve accuracy by calibrating your instruments
against a standard reference to find errors in the
instrumental reading.

To find out more read the Beginners Guide to Measurement

www.npl.co.uk/publications/beginners-guide-to-measurement
www.npl.co.uk