meaning variability

Variability refers to how much something changes or differs over time or across different situations. It describes the degree of fluctuation or inconsistency in data, measurements, or outcomes. For example, if test scores are highly variable, students' results differ widely; if they are less variable, scores are more similar. Understanding variability helps identify patterns, assess reliability, and inform decisions by showing whether observed differences are significant or just random fluctuations. In essence, it captures the spread or range of data, providing insight into the stability or unpredictability of a phenomenon.