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When a quantitative variable's distribution is visualized using a histogram, it exhibits a distinct shape. This shape can be described by its peaks and whether the tails are symmetrical or asymmetrical.

Shape of a Distribution

Histograms visually demonstrate different distribution shapes. A symmetrical distribution features balanced mirror-image halves. A negatively skewed distribution has its peak toward the upper end with a long negative tail, while a positively skewed distribution peaks toward the lower end with a long positive tail.

Examples of Symmetrical and Skewed Distributions

A researcher creates a histogram to visualize the distribution of reaction times in a psychology experiment. To describe the distinct shape of this distribution, which visual features should the researcher primarily focus on?

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