Linear Rescaling · “The Honest Reset”
Linear Grade Curve Calculator
The simplest, most defensible curve: shift every score by the same amount.
Used by 2,000+ teachers · No signup · 100% private
Why linear rescaling?
Linear rescaling adds the same number of points to everyone — or lifts the highest score up to the maximum, or nudges the whole class to a target mean. Because the gap between students never changes, it’s the easiest curve to explain and the hardest to argue with. You’re not rewarding low effort; you’re correcting a test that turned out harder than intended.
- Add a fixed number of points — e.g. +10 across the board.
- Adjust to the highest grade — pull the top score up to the maximum and everyone with it.
- Reach a target mean — set the class average you want and shift to hit it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is linear curving?
Linear curving adds the same number of points to every student's score. Add 10 points and a 75% becomes 85%, a 90% becomes 100%. It's the simplest, most transparent method.
How does the Linear Calculator work?
Enter raw scores and choose how to anchor the curve — add fixed points, adjust to the highest grade, or reach a target mean — and it applies that adjustment to every score.
How do I decide how many points to add?
A common approach is to subtract the highest raw score from 100 (top score 92% → add 8). Alternatively, add just enough to raise a near-passing score to the threshold.
What's the formula for linear curving?
New Score = Original Score + X points, where X is your chosen adjustment. Straightforward and easy to explain to students.
Is linear curving fair?
Yes, if applied consistently to everyone. The trade-off: high scorers benefit as much as low scorers, so the gap between students stays the same.
When should I use linear instead of square root or bell curve?
Use linear when you want maximum simplicity and transparency. It's ideal for smaller adjustments and when you don't want complex formulas or statistics.
What happens if adding points pushes students above 100%?
The calculator caps scores at the maximum. Students who would exceed 100% stay at 100% — standard practice.
How do I explain linear curving to students?
Be direct: "The exam was harder than expected, so I’m adding X points to everyone’s score." Linear is the easiest method for students to understand and verify.
Can I use linear curving with weighted assignments?
Yes. Apply the linear adjustment to raw scores, then use your weighted formula — or apply it after weighting. Both work mathematically.
What if I want to curve just one assignment?
Linear works perfectly for a single assignment. Enter only that assignment’s scores, apply your adjustment, and update it in your gradebook.
Still have questions? Get in touch.