Real GDP and Nominal GDP
Nominal GDP measures the value of output during a given year using the prices prevailing during that year. Over time, the general level of prices tends to rise due to inflation (but may also fall, due to deflation), leading to an increase (or decrease) in nominal GDP even if the volume of goods and services produced is unchanged.
Real GDP measures the value of output in two or more different years by valuing the goods and services adjusted for inflation. For example, if both the "nominal GDP" and price level doubled between 1995 and 2005, the "real GDP " would remain the same. For year over year GDP growth, "real GDP" is usually used as it gives a more accurate view of the economy.
Read more about this topic: Measuring GDP
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