The Excel FDIST function returns the right-tailed F probability distribution, used to compare the variability of two data sets. It is the legacy name of F.DIST.RT, introduced in Excel 2010.
Syntax
| Argument | Description | |
|---|---|---|
x | Required | The value at which to evaluate the function (must be ≥ 0). |
deg_freedom1 | Required | The numerator degrees of freedom (a positive integer). |
deg_freedom2 | Required | The denominator degrees of freedom (a positive integer). |
How to use it
FDIST returns the right-tailed probability of the F distribution — the p-value for an F-test statistic with the given numerator and denominator degrees of freedom.
Because it is right-tailed, the modern replacement is F.DIST.RT — not F.DIST, which is left-tailed. The inverse direction is provided by FINV / F.INV.RT.
Use F.DIST.RT instead: =F.DIST.RT(15,6,4) in Excel 2010+ returns the same right-tailed value. Note F.DIST (no .RT) is left-tailed and gives a different result.
Try it: interactive demo
Pick a FDIST example to see the formula and its result.
Practice workbook
Frequently asked questions
What is the modern replacement for FDIST?
F.DIST.RT, added in Excel 2010 — the right-tailed F distribution. =F.DIST.RT(15,6,4) equals =FDIST(15,6,4).Is FDIST left-tailed or right-tailed?
x. That is why its modern equivalent is F.DIST.RT and not the left-tailed F.DIST.What is the F distribution used for?
What is the inverse of FDIST?
FINV (modern F.INV.RT): give it a right-tail probability and the two degrees of freedom and it returns the corresponding F value.Master functions like this in one day
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