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NORMSDIST Function
Summary
The NORMSDIST function calculates the cumulative distribution for a standard normal distribution (mean=0, standard deviation=1). This legacy function computes the probability that a standard normal random variable is less than or equal to a given z-score value.
Syntax
NORMSDIST(z)Parameters
| Parameter | Type | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| z | Number |
Yes | The input value (z-score) for the standard normal distribution calculation |
Using the NORMSDIST Function
NORMSDIST is used in statistical analysis to find probabilities from the standard normal distribution without needing z-tables. It's commonly applied in hypothesis testing, quality control, and financial risk modeling. **Note:** Microsoft recommends using NORM.S.DIST(z,TRUE) instead for better accuracy.
Common NORMSDIST Examples
Basic Z-Score Probability
=NORMSDIST(1.333333)Returns 0.9088, the probability that a standard normal variable ≤ 1.333333 (90.88%)
Statistical Significance Testing
=NORMSDIST(B2)Converts test statistic in B2 to p-value for right-tailed test
Error Handling Example
=IFERROR(NORMSDIST(A2),"Invalid z-score")Safely handles non-numeric input with custom error message
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Errors and Solutions
#VALUE!
Cause: Non-numeric z value provided
Solution: Ensure z argument contains a valid number
Unexpected results
Cause: Confusing with NORMDIST (non-standard normal)
Solution: Use NORMDIST for custom mean/SD parameters
Notes
- Legacy function - prefer NORM.S.DIST(z,TRUE)
- Cumulative distribution only (use NORM.S.INV for inverse)
- Z-scores should be properly standardized: (x-μ)/σ
Compatibility
Available in: Excel 2003, Excel 2007, Excel 2010, Excel 2013, Excel 2016, Excel 2019, Excel 2021, Microsoft 365
Not available in:
Content last reviewed: December 9, 2025
Update frequency: As needed
Excel versions tested: Excel 2003+