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The mean is defined as the average score in a set of scores. To calculate the mean, you take the sum of all the scores in the set and then divide that sum by the total number of scores. This statistical measure provides a central value that represents the typical score within the group. Understanding the concept of the mean is fundamental in evaluating data as it helps identify trends and make comparisons between different sets of scores.

In contrast, the highest score represents the maximum value in the data set, whereas the lowest score identifies the minimum. The total score would be the sum of all values, but it does not give insight into the average performance or central tendency of the data. Therefore, while all these terms relate to scores, only the average score accurately describes the mean.