Drop-lowest is an outlier policy
Dropping the lowest score helps exactly when one score sits far below the rest — a single 65 among 80s costs about 4 points, which the drop recovers. When scores are consistent, the drop is worth almost nothing. If your syllabus offers a drop, its value to you is the difference between the two averages shown above.
Different point values? Use the points method
If tests carry different point values rather than stated weights, add points earned and divide by points possible — that weights each test by its length automatically. Averaging percentages across unequal-length tests undercounts the long ones.
FAQ
How do I average my test scores?
Add the scores and divide by the number of tests. If the syllabus weights tests differently, multiply each by its weight first and divide by the total weight.
How much does dropping the lowest score help?
It depends on the spread. One low outlier among otherwise consistent scores can cost 3–5 points, which the drop recovers; with consistent scores the drop is worth less than a point.
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