The Square Root Curve Calculator is a grading method used to adjust percentage scores through a mathematical square root formula. It is often applied when exams or assignments are considered unusually difficult, allowing grades to be scaled in a way that benefits lower scores more than higher ones while still maintaining relative performance differences.

A Square Root Curve Calculator recalculates grades by taking the square root of the original percentage and converting it back into a percentage value. Unlike linear curves, this approach provides larger improvements for lower scores and smaller increases for higher scores, making it suitable for balancing overall grade distributions.

The square root curve applies non-linear scaling. Students with low raw scores receive a stronger boost, while students with already high scores receive minimal changes. This ensures that performance gaps are reduced without removing distinctions between students who performed at different levels.

Formula Used:

SRG = √(G) × 10

• SRG = Square Root Curved Grade
• √ = Square root function
• G = Original percentage grade

• Step 1: Enter your original percentage score between 0 and 100.
• Step 2: Submit the value using the calculate option.
• Step 3: Review the curved percentage shown in the results.
• Step 4: Observe how many points your grade increased.
• Step 5: Use the lookup table to compare other scores if needed.

Example 1: Low Score

• Original Grade: 36%
• Square root of 36 = 6
• 6 × 10 = 60%
• Final Curved Grade: 60%

Example 2: Average Score

• Original Grade: 64%
• Square root of 64 = 8
• 8 × 10 = 80%
• Final Curved Grade: 80%

Example 3: High Score

• Original Grade: 81%
• Square root of 81 = 9
• 9 × 10 = 90%
• Final Curved Grade: 90%

With the Square Root Curve Calculator, the amount of improvement depends on the original score. Lower scores may increase substantially, while higher scores change only slightly. This pattern ensures that the curve supports fairness without artificially inflating already strong results.

• When an assessment proves more difficult than expected
• When the overall class average is significantly low
• When a consistent mathematical adjustment is required
• When preserving score differences is important

What does a square root curve do to grades?

A square root curve increases grades by applying a mathematical transformation rather than adding fixed points. Lower scores receive larger boosts, while higher scores improve only slightly. This approach helps normalize grades when an assessment is particularly challenging.

Is the square root curve fair?

The square root curve is generally considered fair because it rewards lower-performing students without eliminating performance differences. It maintains relative ranking while reducing the impact of unusually difficult exams, which is why it is commonly used in academic settings.

Can a square root curve turn a failing grade into a pass?

In some cases, a failing grade may increase enough to reach a passing threshold. However, the final outcome depends on the original score and institutional grading policies. The curve does not guarantee a pass but may significantly improve low results.

Does a square root curve affect high scores?

High scores are affected minimally by a square root curve. Students who already scored well may see only small increases, ensuring that top performance remains distinct and is not disproportionately inflated.

The Square Root Curve Calculator provides a clear way to estimate curved grades using a consistent mathematical method. While useful for understanding potential adjustments, final grades should always follow official academic guidelines.