Statistical parameters are mathematical properties of a set of numerical values. These are typically real numbers (integers are converted into reals). The following symbolic conventions are established:

In empirical sciences, the numerical values are typically properties of individuals in a sample that has been taken to represent a population. The values may have been measured or determined otherwise. In statistical calculations, a set of values is typically arranged in a column of a table. The pattern of these values in the sample is also called a distribution. The parameters are used to describe the distribution succinctly; they are like a summary of the set of the values.

The following three are the most elementary statistical parameters:

In empirical sciences, a distribution of numerical values is generally characterized by quoting two statistical parameters: the arithmetic mean and the standard deviation. To describe a normal distribution, these two are sufficient.

There are also statistical parameters applying to the population that the sample has been taken from. In contrast to the statistical properties of a sample, these are of necessity estimations.