F.DIST.RT Function

Excel 2010+

Summary

The F.DIST.RT function calculates the right-tailed F probability distribution, helping you determine if two datasets have significantly different variances. Ideal for statistical analysis comparing variability between groups like test scores across demographics.

Syntax

F.DIST.RT(x, deg_freedom1, deg_freedom2)

Parameters

Parameter Type Required Description
x Number Yes The numeric value at which to evaluate the F distribution
deg_freedom1 Number Yes Numerator degrees of freedom (must be ≥ 1)
deg_freedom2 Number Yes Denominator degrees of freedom (must be ≥ 1)

Using the F.DIST.RT Function

Use F.DIST.RT for F-tests comparing variances between two populations. It returns the probability that a random F-distributed variable exceeds the specified x value, calculated as P(F > x). Perfect for quality control, research analysis, and academic studies.

Common F.DIST.RT Examples

Basic F Probability Test

=F.DIST.RT(15.2068649, 6, 4)

Calculates F probability for x=15.2068649 with 6 numerator and 4 denominator degrees of freedom. Returns approximately 0.01.

Variance Comparison Example

=F.DIST.RT(VAR.S(A1:A10)/VAR.S(B1:B10), COUNT(A1:A10)-1, COUNT(B1:B10)-1)

Tests if two sample variances differ significantly using sample data.

Frequently Asked Questions

It returns the right-tailed probability P(F > x) for an F-distributed variable with specified degrees of freedom.

Use F.DIST.RT for right-tailed tests (P(F > x)). Use F.DIST for cumulative left-tailed probabilities.

Common Errors and Solutions

#VALUE!

Cause: Any argument is non-numeric

Solution: Ensure all inputs are valid numbers

#NUM!

Cause: x is negative or degrees of freedom < 1

Solution: Use x ≥ 0 and deg_freedom1, deg_freedom2 ≥ 1

#NUM!

Cause: Degrees of freedom are non-integer

Solution: Degrees of freedom are automatically truncated to integers

Notes

  • F.DIST.RT is calculated as P(F > x)
  • Degrees of freedom are truncated to integers if non-integer
  • Available only in Excel 2010 and later versions
  • Use for one-tailed F-tests comparing variances

Compatibility

Available in: Excel 2010, Excel 2013, Excel 2016, Excel 2019, Excel 2021, Microsoft 365

Not available in: Excel 2007, Excel 2003, Earlier versions

Content last reviewed: December 9, 2025
Update frequency: As needed
Excel versions tested: Excel 2010+