How to Calculate Cumulative Probability in Excel (with Easy Steps)

Get FREE Advanced Excel Exercises with Solutions!

Excel is the most widely used tool for dealing with massive datasets. We can perform myriads of tasks of multiple dimensions in Excel. In this article, I will show you how to calculate cumulative probability in Excel.


Download Practice Workbook

Download this workbook and practice while going through the article.


Introduction to Cumulative Probability

The concept of cumulative probability is fundamental in probability and statistics. It is very useful in modeling and forecasting, especially in biology, physics, geology, and other fields where random variables are used in prediction and modeling.

The cumulative probability is the likelihood that the value of a random variable is within a specific range.

P(m ≤ x ≤ n)

Where x is a random variable and m and n are the limits of a specific range.


4 Steps to Calculate Cumulative Probability in Excel

This is the dataset for today’s dataset. There are 60 samples and their weights in grams. I will calculate the cumulative probability using these values.

how to calculate cumulative probability in excel


Step 1: Sort Data in Ascending Order

The first step is to sort the data from the smallest to the largest. To do so,

  • First of all, select C8:C67.
  • Then, go to the Data
  • After that, select the icon (smallest to largest).

  • Excel will sort your dataset.

Sort Dataset to calculate cumulative probability in excel

Read More: How to Calculate Probability Distribution in Excel (with Quick Steps)


Step 2: Calculate Mean of Dataset Using AVERAGE Function

The next step is to calculate the mean of the dataset. I will use the AVERAGE function to calculate it.

  • Go to D4 and write down the following formula
=AVERAGE(C8:C67)

  • After that, press ENTER to get the output.

Calculate Average to calculate cumulative probability in excel

Read More: Calculating Probability in Excel with Mean and Standard Deviation


Similar Readings


Step 3: Measure Standard Deviation of Dataset

The next step is to measure the standard deviation of the dataset. For this, I will use the STDEV.P function.

  • First of all, go to D5 and write down the following formula
=STDEV.P(C8:C67)

  • After that, press ENTER to get the output.

Calculate Standard Deviation to calculate cumulative probability in excel

Read More: How to Calculate Probability of Exceedance in Excel


Step 4: Using NORM.DIST Function to Calculate Cumulative Probability

The next step is the calculation of the cumulative probability using the NORM.DIST function. For this, your dataset should have normal distribution.

  • First of all, go to D8 and write down the following formula
=NORM.DIST(C8,$D$4,$D$5,TRUE)

Formula Explanation:

  • The cumulative argument is a logical value that determines the form of the function. If it is TRUE, NORM.DIST returns the cumulative distribution function; if FALSE, it returns the probability density function.
  • After that, press ENTER to get the output.

calculate cumulative probability in excel

  • Then, use the Fill Handle to AutoFill up to D67.

  • Now, I will plot a chart of the cumulative distribution. To do so,
  • Select C7:D67.
  • Then, go to the Insert
  • After that, choose the scatter
  • Finally, select the one you like.

Plot chart calculate cumulative probability in excel

  • Excel will create a chart.

Read More: Use Normal Probability Distribution in Excel (3 Cases)


Things to Remember

  • Use absolute reference to lock a cell.
  • The STDEV.P function is for the population. The STDEV.S function is for the sample.

Conclusion

In this article, I have demonstrated how to calculate cumulative probability in Excel. I hope it helps everyone. If you have any suggestions, ideas, or feedback, please feel free to comment below. Please visit Exceldemy for more useful articles like this.


Akib Bin Rashid
Akib Bin Rashid

Hi, this is MD Akib Bin Rashid. I completed my BSc in Engineering back in 2019. After that, I did an MBA. Then, I joined as an Excel and VBA Content Developer at SOFTEKO Digital. Being passionate about data analytics and finance, I will try to assist you with Excel

We will be happy to hear your thoughts

Leave a reply

Advanced Excel Exercises with Solutions PDF

 

 

ExcelDemy
Logo