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Statistical Power Analysis

Calculate statistical power or required sample size for your study.

What is Statistical Power?

Statistical power (1 - β) is the probability that a test will correctly reject the null hypothesis when it is actually false. In other words, it's the ability of your study to detect a real effect if one exists.

A power of 80% means there is an 80% chance of finding a statistically significant result if the effect truly exists. Most journals and ethics committees require a power of at least 80%.

Cohen's Effect Size Conventions

TestSmallMediumLarge
T-Test (Cohen's d)0.200.500.80
ANOVA (Cohen's f)0.100.250.40
Chi-Square (Cohen's w)0.100.300.50
Correlation (r)0.100.300.50

Four Components of Power Analysis

📊

Effect Size

The magnitude of the difference or relationship you expect to find.

👥

Sample Size (n)

The number of observations or participants in each group.

Power (1 - β)

The probability of detecting a real effect. Usually set at 80% or higher.

🎯

Significance Level (α)

The probability of a Type I error (false positive). Usually 0.05.

Important Notes

  • Power analysis should be performed BEFORE data collection, during the study design phase.
  • This calculator uses normal approximation methods that are accurate for most practical sample sizes (n > 5).
  • If you don't know the expected effect size, consider running a pilot study or using Cohen's conventions as a starting point.
  • For complex designs (factorial ANOVA, mixed models, etc.), we recommend using our professional consulting services.