The `GAUSS` function in Excel is used to calculate the probability that a standard normal random variable is between zero and a specified value. Essentially, it helps in determining the probability of that value within the normal distribution curve.
Here’s how you can use the `GAUSS` function in Excel:
Syntax
GAUSS(z)
- z: This is the value at which you want to evaluate the function. It can be any real number.
Description
- The `GAUSS` function returns the probability that a normally distributed random variable will have a value between 0 and `z`.
- The standard normal distribution is a normal distribution with a mean of 0 and a standard deviation of 1.
Example
Suppose you want to find the probability that a standard normal random variable is between 0 and 1.5.
=GAUSS(1.5)
- Select a cell where you want the result to appear.
- Enter the function:
- Press Enter. The result will be approximately 0.43319, which indicates that there is a 43.319% probability that a standard normal random variable falls between 0 and 1.5.
Notes
- The `GAUSS` function is related to the `NORM.S.DIST` function, where `GAUSS(z) = NORM.S.DIST(z, TRUE) – 0.5`.
- The `GAUSS` function returns 0 for negative `z` values.
Use Cases
- This function is often used in statistics when you need to determine how likely a certain range within a standard normal distribution is.
- It’s particularly useful in fields dealing with probability, finance, and modeling.
Keep in mind that accurate usage of statistical functions requires a good understanding of the underlying data and its distribution.
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