SEM Minimum Sample 10-Per-Parameter Rule
Nominal10participants/per parameter heuristic budget only, not SEM power, identification, estimatorvalidity or scientifically adequate sample size. Actual independently qualified instrument/cohort/matching units; no diagnosis, causal outcome, validated personal prediction or universal clinical cutoff.
Description
A participants-per-parameter heuristic is a nominal planning budget.
A participants-per-parameter heuristic is a nominal planning budget.1
It does not determine SEM identification, estimator performance or statistical power. The calculation and input requirements are explained below.
When to use SEM Minimum Sample 10-Per-Parameter Rule
Enter an integer free-parameter count from 0 to 1000000.
How to use SEM Minimum Sample 10-Per-Parameter Rule and how it works
- Prepare the measurements or independently established model inputs described below, with matching units and observation scope.
- Enter the required fields and run SEM Minimum Sample 10-Per-Parameter Rule.
- Read the result fields using the formula, output units, signs and ordering explained below.
- Correct any rejected inputs and rerun; interpret the result within the stated model and its assumptions.
| Input field | Meaning | Value type | Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| actualFreeParameterCount | Actual Free Parameter Count. Use the units and matching context stated in the calculation below. | number | Required; integer 0–1000000; finite; other constraints below |
Enter an integer free-parameter count from 0 to 1000000. Multiply by ten to return the nominal heuristic sample budget. This is not a power calculation or an adequacy guarantee.
nominalSampleBudget=10*freeParameterCount Apply the input ordering, units and branch conditions stated above.
| Output field | Meaning | Value type |
|---|---|---|
| result | Object containing the calculated or selected fields below. | object |
| result.value | Numeric result under the formula and output units explained above. | number |
{
"input": {
"actualFreeParameterCount": 5
},
"output": {
"result": {
"value": 50
}
}
}Limitations and assumptions
The calculation uses the supplied observations and model inputs. It does not collect measurements, select a reference population or coefficient, or establish that the model applies to the actual case. The stated branch conditions and output units remain part of the result.
All fields require explicit values. Unexpected fields, wrong types, nonfinite numbers and sparse arrays are rejected. Alignment, bounds and supported-token rules are explained above; extremely large inputs or nonfinite results can also fail. Input errors differ from successful false comparisons, unavailable-domain flags and empty match lists.
Alternative or Complementary methods
Use Independent t-Test Power .80 Sample Size for a complementary operation: Two-group power planning requires a proposed effect and significance level.
Use Post-Hoc Power From d and n Calculator for a complementary operation: Observed post-hoc power is derived from the observed effect and test design.
References
-
SEM Minimum Sample 10-Per-Parameter Rule — tool.io
Similar or alternative tools
- Independent t-Test Power .80 Sample Size
Two-group power planning requires a proposed effect and significance level.
- Post-Hoc Power From d and n Calculator
Observed post-hoc power is derived from the observed effect and test design.