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CRITBINOM Function
Summary
The CRITBINOM function finds the minimum number of successes in a binomial experiment where the cumulative probability reaches or exceeds a specified threshold. Primarily used in quality control to set acceptable defect limits.
Syntax
CRITBINOM(trials, probability_s, alpha)Parameters
| Parameter | Type | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| trials | Integer |
Yes | Total number of independent Bernoulli trials (must be ≥ 0) |
| probability_s | Number |
Yes | Probability of success on each trial (between 0 and 1) |
| alpha | Number |
Yes | Cumulative probability threshold (between 0 and 1) |
Using the CRITBINOM Function
CRITBINOM helps determine quality control limits by finding the smallest number of successes (or defects) where the cumulative binomial probability meets or exceeds your criterion. Ideal for manufacturing and statistical process control.
Common CRITBINOM Examples
Quality Control Defect Limit
=CRITBINOM(6, 0.5, 0.75)For 6 trials with 50% success probability, finds smallest successes where cumulative probability ≥ 75% (returns 4)
Manufacturing Batch Acceptance
=CRITBINOM(100, 0.02, 0.95)Determines maximum acceptable defects in 100-item batch with 2% defect rate at 95% confidence
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Errors and Solutions
#NUM!
Cause: trials < 0, probability_s < 0 or > 1, alpha < 0 or > 1
Solution: Verify all inputs meet parameter constraints
#VALUE!
Cause: Non-numeric arguments provided
Solution: Ensure all parameters contain valid numbers
Notes
- This is a legacy function replaced by BINOM.INV for improved accuracy
- Still available for backward compatibility
- Trials parameter is truncated if not an integer
- If alpha = 0, returns 0; if alpha = 1, returns trials value
Compatibility
Available in: Excel for Microsoft 365, Excel 2021, Excel 2019, Excel 2016, Excel 2013, Excel 2010, Excel 2007
Not available in: Excel 2003 and earlier
Content last reviewed: December 8, 2025
Update frequency: As needed
Excel versions tested: Excel for Microsoft 365, Excel for Microsoft 365 for Mac, Excel for the web, Excel 2024, Excel 2024 for Mac, Excel 2021, Excel 2021 for Mac, Excel 2019, Excel 2016