Mean values in historical studies

The article examines the possibilities of using averages in historical researches. The basic principles of the application of these mathematical indicators are considered, the main errors of researchers arising from non-compliance with these rules are identified. On the basis of historical material, such averages as arithmetic mean, mode and median are analyzed in detail, their calculation in simple and non-standard cases (if statistical indicators are presented in the form of groupings, closed or open intervals). The possibilities of the «Microsoft Excel» program for calculating averages are demonstrated. Finally, the indicators of variation are characterized, allowing to reflect the individual values of the units of the statistical population.