# Google Sheets NORM.S.DIST Function: Syntax, Examples & Tips - URL: https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/norm.s.dist-function - Author: Better Analyst Formula Bot is now Better Analyst—same account, more powerful analysis.Formula Bot is now Better Analyst—same account and workflows, with more powerful analysis, dashboards, and automation. [Learn what changed](https://betteranalyst.com/formula-bot-is-now-better-analyst) The NORM.S.DIST function calculates the standard normal distribution's probability for a given z-score, returning the cumulative probability. ``` NORM.S.DIST(x) ``` Generate FormulaExplain Formula One free generation or explanation per browser, shared across Excel and Google Sheets. Account usage limits apply afterward. Describe the NORM.S.DIST you need in plain EnglishGenerate Formula ## Parameters **`x`**:\ The value for which you want to calculate the standard normal distribution. **`cumulative`**:\ A logical value that determines the form of the function. If TRUE, NORM.S.DIST returns the cumulative distribution function; if FALSE, it returns the probability density function. ## What is NORM.S.DIST? The *NORM.S.DIST* function in Google Sheets is a statistical function that returns the standard normal distribution, which is a normal distribution with a mean of 0 and a standard deviation of 1. This function is particularly useful in statistics for calculating probabilities and analyzing data that follows a normal distribution. In simpler terms, NORM.S.DIST helps you find the probability of a value occurring within a standard normal distribution, making it an essential tool for statistical analysis. ## A Practical Example Imagine you are conducting a study on test scores, and you want to analyze how likely it is for a student to score below a certain value on a standardized test. ### Test Scores Table: | StudentID | Score | | - | - | | 1 | 85 | | 2 | 90 | | 3 | 78 | | 4 | 92 | You want to find the probability that a randomly selected student scores less than 85. ## NORM.S.DIST Formula To achieve this, you would use the NORM.S.DIST function as follows: ``` =NORM.S.DIST((85 - AVERAGE(B2:B5)) / STDEV.P(B2:B5), TRUE) ``` In this formula: - `(85 - AVERAGE(B2:B5)) / STDEV.P(B2:B5)` calculates the z-score for the score of 85. - `TRUE` indicates that you want the cumulative distribution function, which gives the probability that a random variable is less than or equal to the specified value. ## Result of the Formula When you apply the NORM.S.DIST formula to the Test Scores Table, you will get a probability value that indicates the likelihood of a student scoring less than 85. For example, if the output is `0.25`, it means there is a 25% chance that a randomly selected student scores below 85. ## Why Use NORM.S.DIST? NORM.S.DIST is beneficial because it allows you to perform probability calculations easily and accurately. It is widely used in fields such as finance, psychology, and quality control, where understanding the likelihood of certain outcomes is crucial. Additionally, it helps in making informed decisions based on statistical data. ## Key Takeaways: - **NORM.S.DIST**: A statistical function that returns the standard normal distribution for a given value. - **Z-Score Calculation**: It requires the calculation of a z-score to determine the probability. - **Cumulative Distribution**: Can return cumulative probabilities, which are essential for statistical analysis. - **Common Use Cases**: Ideal for analyzing test scores, financial data, and any scenario where normal distribution is applicable. NORM.S.DIST is an essential function for anyone working with statistical data, providing a powerful way to analyze probabilities and make data-driven decisions. Happy analyzing! ## Example use case You have a table with sales data, where Column A contains sales amounts. You can use NORM.S.DIST to calculate the probability of a given sales amount falling within a standard normal distribution, helping to assess performance against benchmarks. ## Need more help with Google Sheets formulas? Sign up for Better Analyst and get unlimited AI-powered formula generation, explanations, and advanced data analysis. [Create Free Account](https://betteranalyst.com/signup)[Try Formula Generator](https://betteranalyst.com/excel-ai) ## Google Sheets how-to guides - [How To Create A Pivot Table In Google Sheets](https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/how-to-create-a-pivot-table-in-google-sheets) - [How To Divide In Google Sheets](https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/how-to-divide-in-google-sheets) - [How To Enable Macros In Google Sheets](https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/how-to-enable-macros-in-google-sheets) - [How To Filter In Google Sheets](https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/how-to-filter-in-google-sheets) - [How To Find Circular References In Google Sheets](https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/how-to-find-circular-references-in-google-sheets) - [How To Find Duplicates In Google Sheets](https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/how-to-find-duplicates-in-google-sheets) - [How To Freeze A Row In Google Sheets](https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/how-to-freeze-a-row-in-google-sheets) - [How To Freeze Panes In Google Sheets](https://betteranalyst.com/google-sheets/how-to-freeze-panes-in-google-sheets) ## Explore all Google Sheets formulas Browse our complete library of Google Sheets formula guides Compare your options ## Decide with evidence, not a sales pitch. 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