What is a common method to arrange numbers when finding the median?

To find the median, the first step is to organize the numbers in ascending order. The median is defined as the middle value in a sorted list of numbers. If there is an odd number of observations, the median is the number located directly in the center. If there is an even number of observations, the median is calculated by taking the average of the two center numbers. Arranging the numbers in ascending order is essential because it ensures that you accurately identify the central position, which is critical for determining the median value. Sorting the numbers in any other order or at random would not provide a reliable or correct median.