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COMBIN Function
Summary
The Excel COMBIN function calculates the number of combinations possible for selecting a specified number of items from a larger set, without regard to order. It's essential for combinatorial mathematics, probability analysis, and statistical modeling in Excel.
Syntax
COMBIN(number, number_chosen)Parameters
| Parameter | Type | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| number | Number |
Yes | Total number of items available (n) - must be ≥ 0 |
| number_chosen | Number |
Yes | Number of items to select per combination (k) - 0 ≤ k ≤ n |
Using the COMBIN Function
COMBIN is widely used in statistics, probability, quality control, and decision analysis. It answers questions like 'How many ways can we form teams from candidates?' or 'How many different samples can be drawn from a population?' The function uses the mathematical combination formula C(n,k) = n! / (k! × (n-k)!).
Common COMBIN Examples
Team Selection
=COMBIN(8,2)Calculates number of possible 2-person teams from 8 candidates. Returns 28.
Committee Formation
=COMBIN(12,3)Number of ways to choose 3 committee members from 12 people. Returns 220.
Card Combinations
=COMBIN(52,5)Ways to choose 5 cards from a standard deck. Returns 2,598,960.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Errors and Solutions
#VALUE!
Cause: Either argument is non-numeric
Solution: Ensure both arguments contain numbers or numeric values
#NUM!
Cause: number < 0, number_chosen < 0, or number_chosen > number
Solution: Verify number ≥ number_chosen ≥ 0
Notes
- Combinations disregard order - {1,2} = {2,1}
- Use COMBINA if blank cells should be treated as selectable items
- Available since Excel 2007
- Maximum reliable value for number is around 1,048,576 due to Excel limitations
Compatibility
Available in: Excel 2007, Excel 2010, Excel 2013, Excel 2016, Excel 2019, Excel 2021, Microsoft 365
Not available in: Excel 2003 and earlier
Content last reviewed: December 9, 2025
Update frequency: As needed
Excel versions tested: Excel 2007+