1. What is the Square Root Grade Curve?

The square root grade curve is a mathematical transformation that applies a square root function to original test scores, then multiplies by 10 to produce curved grades on a 0-100 scale. This method helps adjust scores while maintaining relative performance differences.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the square root curve formula:

Where:

• Original Grade — Input score between 0-100
• Curved Grade — Transformed output score

Explanation: The square root function provides a non-linear transformation that gives more benefit to lower scores while compressing the scale for higher scores.

3. Purpose of Grade Curving

Details: Grade curving helps adjust test scores to account for exam difficulty, normalize distributions, and provide fair assessment when tests are unexpectedly challenging.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the original grade between 0-100. The calculator will compute the curved grade using the square root transformation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use a square root curve instead of linear scaling?
A: Square root curves provide more adjustment to lower scores while maintaining the relative ranking of students, unlike linear curves that affect all scores equally.

Q2: What's the maximum curved grade possible?
A: The maximum curved grade is 100, achieved when the original grade is 100 (√100 × 10 = 10 × 10 = 100).

Q3: How much does this curve help lower scores?
A: Lower scores receive significant boosts. For example, a score of 25 becomes 50 (√25 × 10 = 5 × 10 = 50), while a score of 81 becomes 90 (√81 × 10 = 9 × 10 = 90).

Q4: Are there limitations to this curving method?
A: This method compresses the upper range of scores, making high distinctions less pronounced. It may not be suitable for all grading contexts.

Q5: Can this be applied to any scoring scale?
A: The formula is designed for 0-100 scales. For different scales, the formula would need adjustment to maintain the same proportional effect.