The Excel CHISQ.INV.RT function returns the inverse of the right-tailed chi-square distribution — the critical value with a given area in its upper tail. It is the function you reach for to find chi-square critical values at a chosen significance level.
Syntax
| Argument | Description | |
|---|---|---|
probability | Required | The right-tail (upper) probability — typically your significance level, e.g. 0.05. |
deg_freedom | Required | The number of degrees of freedom (a positive integer; decimals are truncated). |
How to use it
CHISQ.INV.RT gives the chi-square value that leaves the stated probability in the right tail — exactly the critical value you compare a test statistic against.
It is the mirror image of the left-tailed CHISQ.INV: CHISQ.INV.RT(0.05, df) = CHISQ.INV(0.95, df). It is also the exact inverse of CHISQ.DIST.RT.
Workflow: compute your chi-square statistic, then compare it to CHISQ.INV.RT(alpha, df). If the statistic exceeds the critical value, reject the null hypothesis.
Try it: interactive demo
Pick a CHISQ.INV.RT example to see the formula and its result.
Practice workbook
Frequently asked questions
Is CHISQ.INV.RT the same as the old CHIINV?
CHIINV is the legacy right-tailed function, and CHISQ.INV.RT is its modern replacement with the same behaviour. The legacy name still works for compatibility.How do I get a chi-square critical value for alpha = 0.05?
=CHISQ.INV.RT(0.05, df), supplying your degrees of freedom. For example with 5 df it returns about 11.07.What is the relationship to CHISQ.INV?
CHISQ.INV.RT(p, df) = CHISQ.INV(1 - p, df). One reads from the right tail, the other from the left.Does CHISQ.INV.RT undo CHISQ.DIST.RT?
CHISQ.DIST.RT(x, df) = p then CHISQ.INV.RT(p, df) = x — they are exact inverses.Master functions like this in one day
This page covers one function. Our Excel Formulas and Functions class covers the 30 that matter most — live, hands-on, taught by professionals in Dallas–Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, Oklahoma City, Denver, or online.
See the Formulas & Functions Class