What Is Correction Factor?
by Erin Watson-Price
A correction factor is any mathematical adjustment made to a calculation to account for deviations in either the sample or the method of measurement. Below are some examples of real world correction factors.
Insulin Correction Factor
Insulin dependent diabetics need to regulate the amount of subcutaneous insulin they inject per day based on their current blood sugar levels. A rule of thumb, or correction factor, used is the 1800 rule for Humalog or Novolog insulin types. Divide 1800 by the dose of insulin per day to determine the total point drop of blood sugar per unit of insulin.
High Altitude Cooking Correction Factor
An everyday application of the correction factor applies to high altitude cooking. While there isn't an easy formula, Better Homes and Gardens indicates correcting cooking temperatures by adding 15 to 25 degrees Fahrenheit.
Speedometer Correction Factor
When changing the tires on your car from the original factory tire to an aftermarket tire of different dimensions, the reading on your speedometer may be false. It is necessary to determine the correction factor or variance in order to get you actual speed. See Reference 4 for an online calculator.
References
Writer Bio
Transplanted Yankee Erin Watson-Price lives in Birmingham, Ala., and has been writing freelance articles since 1997. She worked as writer/co-editor for Coast to Coast Dachshund Rescue's newsletter, "The Long and the Short of It." In 2007 she obtained a certification as a copy editor. Watson-Price holds a Bachelor of Arts in creative writing from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville.
