Accuracy refers to getting a value that is close to the actual answer in a measurement. Precision, on the other hand, is related to the reproducibility of the result, meaning the same result is achieved every time the measurement is taken. Although both terms are often used in the fields of engineering, physics, and industry, they have distinct differences.
Key Takeaways
- Accuracy is the closeness of a measurement to its actual or real value
- Precision is the regularity of obtaining the same result frequently
- Both accuracy and precision are important in measurement systems, but they have different meanings and applications