What does normal distribution help analysts understand in data analysis?

Normal distribution plays a crucial role in data analysis by helping analysts understand how data is spread and identify outliers. In a normal distribution, data points are symmetrically distributed around the mean, with the majority of data clustering close to that central value and fewer data points appearing as you move further away. This characteristic allows analysts to gauge the variability and dispersion within a dataset.

By examining the spread of the data, analysts can determine where most observations lie and how extreme values compare to the rest of the data. Outliers are critical to identify, as they can skew results and affect the validity of conclusions drawn from the data. Understanding the pattern of normal distribution aids in making predictions, assessing probabilities, and performing various statistical tests, enhancing the overall robustness of data analysis.