Home Back

Simple Composite Index Formula

Composite Index Formula:

\[ \text{Composite Index} = \frac{\sum (w_i \times I_i)}{\sum w_i} \]

e.g., 0.3,0.4,0.3
e.g., 85,92,78

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From: To:

1. What is the Composite Index Formula?

The Composite Index Formula calculates a weighted average of sub-indices to create a single composite measure. It is widely used in economics, social sciences, and performance measurement to combine multiple indicators into one comprehensive score.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the composite index formula:

\[ \text{Composite Index} = \frac{\sum (w_i \times I_i)}{\sum w_i} \]

Where:

Explanation: The formula calculates the weighted average where each sub-index is multiplied by its corresponding weight, then divided by the sum of all weights to normalize the result.

3. Importance of Composite Index Calculation

Details: Composite indices are essential for summarizing complex multidimensional phenomena, enabling comparisons across different entities, and supporting decision-making processes in various fields including economics, education, and healthcare.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weights as comma-separated values (e.g., 0.3,0.4,0.3) and sub-indices as comma-separated values (e.g., 85,92,78). Ensure the number of weights matches the number of indices. Weights should sum to 1 for percentage interpretation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the range of composite index values?
A: The composite index range depends on the sub-index values. It typically falls within the range of the sub-indices used in the calculation.

Q2: How should weights be determined?
A: Weights should reflect the relative importance of each sub-index. They can be determined through expert judgment, statistical analysis, or equal weighting if no preference exists.

Q3: Can weights be negative?
A: Typically, weights are non-negative. Negative weights would imply inverse relationships that are better handled through different normalization methods.

Q4: What if the sum of weights is not 1?
A: The formula automatically normalizes by dividing by the sum of weights, so the result will be correctly scaled regardless of the total weight sum.

Q5: What are common applications of composite indices?
A: Human Development Index (HDI), Consumer Price Index (CPI), Environmental Performance Index, and various business performance metrics.

Simple Composite Index Formula© - All Rights Reserved 2025