In: Statistics and Probability
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 Suppose we are interested in the mean scores on an exam. A random sample of 36 scores is taken and gives a sample mean (sample mean score) of 68 (x̄ = 68). In this example, we have the unusual knowledge that the population standard deviation is 3 points. Do not count on knowing the population parameters outside of textbook examples. 
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Solution :
Given that,
Z
/2
= 1.645
Margin of error = E = Z
/2*
(
/n)
= 1.645 * (3 / 
36)
= 0.82
At 90% confidence interval estimate of the population mean is,
- E < 
 < 
 + E
68 - 0.82 < 
 < 68 + 0.82
67.18 < 
 < 68.82
(67.18 , 68.82)