The CHISQ.DIST function in Google Sheets is a powerful tool for statistical analysis. It computes the left-tailed chi-squared distribution, which is frequently utilized in hypothesis testing to determine the probability of observing a specific test statistic under the null hypothesis.

Syntax

CHISQ.DIST(x, deg_freedom, cumulative, [a])

• x: The value at which you want to evaluate the distribution.
• deg_freedom: The number of degrees of freedom for the chi-squared distribution.
• cumulative: A logical value that determines the form of the function. Use TRUE for the cumulative distribution function, and FALSE for the probability density function.
• [a]: Optional; a parameter that affects the shape of the distribution, usually set to 0 or omitted.

Example #1

=CHISQ.DIST(5, 10, TRUE)

This function call evaluates the left-tailed chi-squared distribution at 5 with 10 degrees of freedom and returns the cumulative probability. For instance, this could yield a result of approximately 0.2936.

Example #2

=CHISQ.DIST(10, 5, FALSE)

Here, the function calculates the probability density function at a value of 10 with 5 degrees of freedom. A possible output could be around 0.1151, indicating the density of the distribution at that point.

Example #3

=CHISQ.DIST(7, 3, TRUE)

This instance evaluates the cumulative distribution function at a value of 7 with 3 degrees of freedom. The result might be approximately 0.8768, showing the cumulative probability up to that value.

Error handling

• NUM! The error occurs if x is negative or if deg_freedom is not a positive integer.
• VALUE! This error arises when the supplied parameters are of the wrong data type, such as non-numeric inputs.

Conclusion

The CHISQ.DIST function is an essential asset for those engaged in statistical analysis and hypothesis testing. By properly employing its syntax and understanding the parameters, you can effectively leverage this function to derive insightful conclusions from your data.