Sample Size Calculator

How many responses you need for a given confidence and margin.

%
%
Required sample size
383

for 95% confidence, ±5%

Before correction
385
Critical z
1.96
Population
100,000
Show the working
  1. 1n₀ = z²·p(1−p) ÷ e² = 1.96² × 0.5×0.5 ÷ 0.05² = 384.1
  2. 2Finite-population correction for N = 100,000 → 383
Formula
n = z²·p(1−p) ÷ e² (with finite-population correction)

How it works

How many survey responses you need for a target confidence and margin of error. A 50% proportion gives the most conservative (largest) size.

Example

For 95% confidence and ±5% from a large population, you need about 385 responses.

About the Sample Size Calculator

How many responses you need for a given confidence and margin. It sits in the Statistics section of NWS Calc, a free collection of calculators that run entirely in your browser. There is no signup, no paywall and no tracking — open the page, enter your numbers, get an answer.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Sample Size Calculator free to use?
Yes. Every calculator on NWS Calc is completely free, with no signup, no usage limits and no ads.
Does my data leave my device?
No. The Sample Size Calculator runs entirely in your browser using JavaScript. Nothing you type is uploaded, logged or stored on a server.
Can I use the Sample Size Calculator on my phone?
Yes. The page is fully responsive and works in any modern mobile or desktop browser — there is nothing to install.
What else is in Statistics?
Mean, deviation, regression, probability and distributions. You can browse the full Statistics category for related calculators.

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