FREQUENCY
The FREQUENCY function calculates the frequency distribution of data points in a set of values. It helps in analyzing data distribution and identifying patterns or outliers.
Syntax 🔗
=FREQUENCY(Data_Array, Bins_Array)
Data_Array | The array of values for which you want to calculate frequency distribution. |
Bins_Array | The array of threshold values that define the intervals for grouping the data points. |
About FREQUENCY 🔗
Use the FREQUENCY function in Excel to analyze the distribution of values in your dataset. This function helps you segment data into intervals or bins, showing how often values occur in each bin. It's useful for identifying trends, patterns, or anomalies, especially in statistical analysis and research, where understanding value distribution is important for drawing conclusions or making decisions.
Examples 🔗
Suppose you have a set of exam scores in cells A2:A11 (70, 85, 90, 65, 80, 75, 95, 70, 85, 90) and you want to calculate the frequency distribution of scores in the following bins: 60-69, 70-79, 80-89, 90-100. Enter the FREQUENCY function as an array formula (confirm with Ctrl + Shift + Enter): =FREQUENCY(A2:A11, {69,79,89,100})
Suppose you have a list of sales amounts in cells B2:B21 and you want to analyze the sales distribution in the following intervals: $0-$100, $101-$200, $201-$300, $301-$400. Use the FREQUENCY function: =FREQUENCY(B2:B21, {100, 200, 300, 400})
Notes 🔗
Make sure both the Data_Array and Bins_Array are of equal length. If the bins are not in ascending order, Excel might return incorrect results. You may need to use this function as an array formula by pressing Ctrl + Shift + Enter to populate an array of results.
Questions 🔗
The FREQUENCY function aids in data analysis by quantifying the distribution of values within predefined intervals or bins. This allows users to discern patterns, trends, or outliers within the dataset.
What happens if the Data_Array and Bins_Array are not the same length in the FREQUENCY function?If the Data_Array and Bins_Array are not of equal length, Excel will likely produce erroneous results. Make sure to align the length of both arrays to ensure accurate frequency distribution calculations.
Why might you need to enter the FREQUENCY function as an array formula?Entering the FREQUENCY function as an array formula is necessary when you want to calculate the frequency distribution for multiple data points simultaneously. This ensures that the results are displayed correctly across all data points.