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The Madison Avenue Field GuideA field guide to marketing & advertising, by Brandon Mina

GlossaryMeasurement & AttributionSample Size Calculation

Measurement & Attribution

Sample Size Calculation

Determining how many users, conversions or regions a test needs to detect a given effect with the desired confidence and power.

By Brandon MinaCEO, BrandPilot AIUpdated November 2026

Short answer

A sample size calculation determines how many users, conversions or regions a test needs to detect a given effect with the desired confidence and statistical power. Inputs include the baseline rate, the minimum detectable effect and the significance level. Calculating it before launch prevents underpowered tests and premature conclusions.