Enter the significance level (α) and the sample size (n) into the calculator to determine the probability of making a Type I Error.
Type I Error Formula
The following formula is used to calculate the probability of a Type I Error:
P(Type I Error) = α
Variables:
- α is the significance level, the probability of rejecting the null hypothesis when it is actually true.
To calculate the probability of a Type I Error, simply use the significance level as the probability, as it is the threshold at which you decide to reject the null hypothesis.
What is a Type I Error?
A Type I Error, also known as a “false positive,” occurs when a statistical hypothesis test incorrectly rejects a true null hypothesis. This means that the test indicates that there is an effect or a difference when in fact there is none. The significance level (α) is the probability of making a Type I Error, and it is set by the researcher before conducting the test.
How to Calculate Type I Error Probability?
The following steps outline how to calculate the probability of a Type I Error:
- First, determine the significance level (α), which is the threshold for rejecting the null hypothesis.
- Next, understand that the probability of making a Type I Error is equal to the significance level (α).
- Finally, use the calculator above to confirm the probability of a Type I Error.
Example Problem :
Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.
Significance Level (α) = 0.05
Sample Size (n) = 100
