The TDIST function in Excel calculates the probability of Student's t-distribution, where x is the calculated value of t used for probability calculation. The t-distribution is utilized for hypothesis testing with small sample sizes. This function replaces the need for a table of standard t-distribution values.
TDIST Function and Example
Guide on How to Use the TDIST Function in Excel - Illustrated Example
Syntax: TDIST(x, degrees_freedom, tails)
Where:
- x: Value for calculating the Student's distribution.
- Degrees_freedom: Integer indicating the degrees of freedom, a required value.
- Tails: Specifies how the residual part of the distribution is returned.
+ When tails = 1, TDIST() returns a one-tailed distribution;
+ When tails = 2, TDIST() returns a two-tailed distribution. This value is mandatory.
Consider an Example:
Calculate the Student's distribution value with x= 2.67 and degrees of freedom as 60?
We proceed as follows:
- For Tails=1: In cell E9, input the formula, and the result is as shown below.
- For Tails=2: In cell E15, input the formula. The result is displayed as below.
Through the examples above, you should now have a clearer understanding of the syntax and usage of the TDIST function in Excel, enabling efficient and quick calculations on spreadsheets.