What is a stanine?

A stanine is a method of converting a raw score into a standardized format on a 9-point scale, which allows for easier interpretation of an individual's performance relative to a reference group. The stanine scale ranges from 1 to 9, with a stanine of 5 representing the average performance. This standardized scoring approach is particularly useful in educational assessments, as it facilitates comparison among students and makes it easier to identify areas of improvement or strength.

This method supports educators and parents in understanding a student's performance in relation to a broader population. A stanine score is derived from percentile ranks, enabling educators to categorize student performance levels into broader bands while minimizing the impact of the raw score's variability. By using a 9-point scale, it simplifies the complexity of raw scores, providing a clear, concise summary of a student's achievement.