A REVIEW OF UNCERTAINTY ESTIMATION

A measurement result without a statement of uncertainty is of little value. However, the uncertainty, if provided, should be carefully estimated and stated. Differing approaches to the expression of uncertainty often cause confusion or vexation to both the reporters and the users of measurement results. Both may view the methodology as esoteric or subjective in nature. The current methodology for uncertainty estimation will be reviewed. The error model, the form of the corresponding error distributions and the statement of uncertainty will be stressed.