What is a frequency distribution?

A frequency distribution is a statistical tool that summarizes data by organizing it into intervals, showing how often each interval is observed. This method allows for a clear visualization of data trends and patterns, making it easier to analyze large sets of data.

Grouping observations into regular intervals helps in understanding the distribution of values within a data set. Each interval, known as a "class," contains a range of values, and the frequency corresponds to the number of observations that fall within that range. By doing this, the frequency distribution provides key insights into the overall characteristics of the data, such as its central tendency and variability.

The other options do not accurately describe what a frequency distribution is. Random grouping of observations lacks a systematic approach and does not provide the clarity that a structured interval classification does. Sorting numbers in descending order focuses solely on rank rather than on frequency or distribution. Likewise, calculating the mean involves finding an average, which does not capture how often different value ranges occur within the dataset. Therefore, the correct choice highlights the fundamental aspect of a frequency distribution, which is the systematic grouping of observations into regular intervals.