Difference Between
versus

Precision vs. Accuracy: Know the Difference

Shumaila Saeed
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Precision is the consistency of results, while accuracy is the closeness of results to a true or target value.
Precision vs. Accuracy

Key Differences

Precision refers to the consistency and repeatability of measurements or results, without necessarily being close to the true value. Accuracy, in contrast, indicates how close a measurement is to the actual or true value.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
In precision, multiple measurements yield results that are very close to each other. In accuracy, the measurements, whether consistent or not, are close to a specific target or true value.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
A high level of precision in measurements does not guarantee their accuracy. Accurate measurements can sometimes lack precision if they are not consistently repeatable.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
To achieve precision, control over the measurement process and consistency is key. To ensure accuracy, calibration against a standard or known value is essential.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
In various fields like science and engineering, precision is crucial for reliable and repeatable results. Accuracy is equally important in these fields to ensure that results reflect true values.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT

Comparison Chart

Definition

Consistency of results among repeated measurements
Closeness of a measurement to the true or target value
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023

Key Characteristic

Repeatability
Truthfulness
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023

Dependency

Independent of the true value
Dependent on the true value
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023

Example

Hitting the same spot repeatedly, regardless of its relation to the target
Hitting the intended target, even if not consistently
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023

Significance

Important for quality control and reliability
Essential for validity and correctness of results
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT

Precision and Accuracy Definitions

Precision

The repeatability of measurements.
The precision of the lab equipment was evident in the consistent test results.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Accuracy

Precision in hitting a target or achieving a goal.
Her accuracy in archery won her the championship.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Precision

Consistency in output or performance.
The watchmaker's precision in crafting timepieces is remarkable.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Accuracy

Faithfulness to an original or a fact.
The translator maintained the accuracy of the original text.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Precision

Accuracy of expression or detail.
The artist's precision in capturing facial expressions is impressive.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT

Accuracy

The correctness or truthfulness of something.
The accuracy of his historical novel was praised by scholars.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Precision

Exactness in measurement or detailing.
Precision in architectural drawings is crucial for successful construction.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Accuracy

Conformity to a standard or truth.
The GPS system's accuracy is vital for navigation.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Precision

The degree of refinement in a process or instrument.
The new microscope offered greater precision in observing tiny cells.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Accuracy

Exactness in representing something.
The accuracy of the scale is essential for baking precise recipes.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 16, 2023

Precision

The state or quality of being precise; exactness.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Accuracy

Conformity to fact.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Precision

The ability of a measurement to be consistently reproduced.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Accuracy

Precision; exactness.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Precision

The number of significant digits to which a value has been reliably measured.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Accuracy

The ability of a measurement to match the actual value of the quantity being measured.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Precision

Used or intended for accurate or exact measurement
A precision tool.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Accuracy

The state of being accurate; being free from error; exactness; correctness
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Precision

Made so as to vary minimally from a set standard
Precision components.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Accuracy

Exact conformity to truth, or to a rule or model; degree of conformity of a measure to a true or standard value.
The jury doubted the accuracy of the witness' comments.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Precision

Of or characterized by accurate action
Precision bombing.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Accuracy

The state of being accurate; freedom from mistakes, this exemption arising from carefulness; exact conformity to truth, or to a rule or model; precision; exactness; nicety; correctness; as, the value of testimony depends on its accuracy.
The professed end [of logic] is to teach men to think, to judge, and to reason, with precision and accuracy.
The accuracy with which the piston fits the sides.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Precision

The state of being precise or exact; exactness.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Accuracy

The quality of nearness to the truth or the true value;
He was beginning to doubt the accuracy of his compass
The lawyer questioned the truth of my account
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Precision

The ability of a measurement to be reproduced consistently.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Accuracy

(mathematics) the number of significant figures given in a number;
The atomic clock enabled scientists to measure time with much greater accuracy
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Precision

(mathematics) The number of significant digits to which a value may be measured reliably.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Precision

(bridge) A bidding system that makes use of many artificial bids to describe a hand quite precisely.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Precision

Used for exact or precise measurement.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Precision

Made, or characterized by accuracy.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Precision

The quality or state of being precise; exact limitation; exactness; accuracy; strict conformity to a rule or a standard; definiteness.
I have left out the utmost precisions of fractions.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Precision

The quality of being reproducible in amount or performance;
He handled it with the preciseness of an automaton
Note the meticulous precision of his measurements
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Oct 19, 2023

Repeatedly Asked Queries

Can a measurement be precise but not accurate?

Yes, measurements can be consistently close together but far from the true value.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023

Why is Precision important?

Precision is crucial for reliability and quality control in processes.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023

What is Precision?

Precision is the consistency and repeatability of measurements.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023

What is Accuracy?

Accuracy is how close a measurement is to a true or target value.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023

How is Precision measured?

Precision is often measured by the spread or variation in repeated measurements.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023

How is Accuracy measured?

Accuracy is measured by comparing results to a known standard or true value.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023

Can a measurement be accurate but not precise?

Yes, a measurement can be close to the true value but not consistently repeatable.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023

How do you improve Precision?

Improving precision involves enhancing consistency and control in the measurement process.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023

How do you ensure Accuracy?

Ensuring accuracy typically requires calibration and comparison with a known standard.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023

What factors affect Accuracy?

Calibration errors, instrument quality, and user knowledge can impact accuracy.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023

In which fields are Precision and Accuracy critical?

Both are critical in fields like science, engineering, medicine, and manufacturing.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023

What is an example of Accuracy in everyday life?

A kitchen scale showing the correct weight of ingredients is an example of accuracy.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023

Are Precision and Accuracy the same in scientific contexts?

No, they have distinct meanings and roles in scientific measurements.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023

Can a tool be both precise and accurate?

Yes, a tool can be both if it consistently delivers results close to the true value.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023

What factors affect Precision?

Factors like instrument quality, user skill, and environmental conditions can affect precision.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023

Why is Accuracy important?

Accuracy ensures the validity and correctness of results.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023

How do you report Precision in data?

Precision in data is often reported as a range or standard deviation.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023

How do you report Accuracy in data?

Accuracy is typically reported as a percentage or degree of error from a standard.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023

What is an example of Precision in everyday life?

An example is a clock that consistently shows the same time when checked repeatedly.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023

Do Precision and Accuracy always go hand in hand?

Not always; a measurement can be one without necessarily being the other.
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 18, 2023

Share this page

Link for your blog / website
HTML
Link to share via messenger
About Author
Shumaila Saeed
Written by
Shumaila Saeed
Shumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.

Popular Comparisons

Trending Comparisons

Smart TV vs. Android TVSmart TV vs. Android TV
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
A Smart TV is an internet-connected television with a variety of apps, while an Android TV is specifically a Smart TV powered by Google's Android TV operating system.
Special Education vs. Inclusive EducationSpecial Education vs. Inclusive Education
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 17, 2024
Special Education is tailored instruction for students with disabilities, while Inclusive Education integrates all students, including those with disabilities, into general education settings.
C3 Plants vs. C4 PlantsC3 Plants vs. C4 Plants
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
C3 plants use a direct carbon fixation process, common in cooler climates, while C4 plants have a specialized mechanism, efficient in high light and temperature.
Seagate Exos x16 vs. Seagate Exos x18Seagate Exos x16 vs. Seagate Exos x18
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 8, 2024
The Seagate Exos X16 offers up to 16TB storage with a focus on high-capacity data centers, while the Exos X18 upgrades to 18TB, enhancing performance and capacity for enterprise demands.
Social Change vs. Cultural ChangeSocial Change vs. Cultural Change
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Social change refers to shifts in societal structures and institutions, impacting behaviors and relationships among people. Cultural change pertains to alterations in a group's shared beliefs, values, and customs, influencing their way of life.
Compression Wood vs. Tension WoodCompression Wood vs. Tension Wood
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Compression Wood is a denser, abnormal growth in softwood trees under mechanical stress, whereas Tension Wood is a less dense, fibrous growth in hardwoods under similar stress.
Travel Agent vs. Tour OperatorTravel Agent vs. Tour Operator
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
A travel agent is a professional who arranges travel plans for individuals, while a tour operator designs and manages complete travel packages.
Gavage vs. LavageGavage vs. Lavage
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Gavage is the process of feeding a person or animal by inserting a tube into the stomach, while lavage is the washing out of a body cavity, such as the stomach, typically for medical treatment.
Gorilla Glass 3 vs. Gorilla Glass 5Gorilla Glass 3 vs. Gorilla Glass 5
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
January 1, 2024
Gorilla Glass 3 offers improved scratch resistance and durability compared to its predecessors, while Gorilla Glass 5 focuses on enhanced drop protection and toughness.
Hard Copy vs. Soft CopyHard Copy vs. Soft Copy
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
A Hard Copy is a physical version of a document or file, usually on paper, while a Soft Copy is a digital version of the document, stored electronically.
Nanomaterials vs. NanoparticlesNanomaterials vs. Nanoparticles
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Nanomaterials are diverse materials with components smaller than 100nm, whereas nanoparticles are specific, ultrafine particles within this size range.
Plant Cell vs. Animal CellPlant Cell vs. Animal Cell
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Plant cells have a cell wall and chloroplasts for photosynthesis, while animal cells lack these but have centrioles.
Term vs. SemesterTerm vs. Semester
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Term is a general period for any division of the academic year, while Semester specifically refers to half of an academic year.
Sausage vs. SmokieSausage vs. Smokie
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
A sausage is a type of meat product usually made from ground meat, often pork, beef, or poultry, while a smokie is a specific type of smoked sausage.
Japanese Eyes vs. Chinese EyesJapanese Eyes vs. Chinese Eyes
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Japanese Eyes and Chinese Eyes refer to linguistic structures in Japanese and Chinese respectively, each reflecting unique aspects of grammar and syntax.
Analog Computer vs. Digital ComputerAnalog Computer vs. Digital Computer
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
An Analog Computer processes continuous data, whereas a Digital Computer processes data in discrete numerical form.
2 Pole Motors vs. 4 Pole Motors2 Pole Motors vs. 4 Pole Motors
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
2 Pole Motors have one pair of magnetic poles and run at higher speeds, while 4 Pole Motors have two pairs of poles and operate at lower speeds, offering higher torque.
Batch Fermentation vs. Continuous FermentationBatch Fermentation vs. Continuous Fermentation
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 10, 2024
Batch Fermentation is a finite process where nutrients are added at the start and products are harvested at the end, whereas Continuous Fermentation involves a steady input of nutrients and continuous product harvest.
Absolute Privilege vs. Qualified PrivilegeAbsolute Privilege vs. Qualified Privilege
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 26, 2023
Absolute privilege is a complete defense against defamation claims, often used in legal or parliamentary contexts, while qualified privilege offers conditional protection, requiring the absence of malice.
Goth vs. AltGoth vs. Alt
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 5, 2024
Goth is a dark, often Victorian-influenced subculture and style, while Alt (alternative) is a broader term encompassing non-mainstream styles and attitudes.
Fast Food vs. Traditional FoodFast Food vs. Traditional Food
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Fast Food is quick, convenient, and often pre-prepared, while Traditional Food emphasizes cultural recipes, longer preparation times, and home cooking.
System Call vs. System ProgramSystem Call vs. System Program
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
February 9, 2024
A System Call is an interface for programs to request services from the operating system, while a System Program is software that provides basic functions for computer operation.
Handsome vs. SmartHandsome vs. Smart
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Handsome describes physical attractiveness, focusing on looks, while smart denotes intelligence or cleverness, related to mental capabilities.
Consecutive vs. SubsequentConsecutive vs. Subsequent
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed
December 25, 2023
Consecutive refers to events or things following one after another in uninterrupted sequence, whereas subsequent denotes following in time or order, but not necessarily immediately afterward.

Featured Comparisons

New Comparisons