Statistical

CHISQ.TEST Function in Excel

Returns the test for independence using chi-squared distribution.

Syntax

  • =CHISQ.TEST(actual_range, expected_range)

Arguments

  • actual_range (required): Observed data
  • expected_range (required): Expected data

Examples

  • =CHISQ.TEST(A1:B3, D1:E3) - Chi-squared test - Result: p-value

CHISQ.TEST for data analysis

  • Confirm whether you need entire columns, filtered subsets, or distinct values.
  • Use [COUNTIFS](/functions/countifs/) and [SUMIFS](/functions/sumifs/) for multi-criteria metrics.
  • Pivot tables complement single-cell statistical formulas for exploration.

Common errors

  • Ranges must be same size

Use cases

  • Independence testing
  • Categorical analysis
  • Hypothesis testing

Frequently asked questions

  • How do I interpret the CHISQ.TEST result? CHISQ.TEST returns a p-value. If p < 0.05 (or your chosen significance level), reject the null hypothesis - the variables are likely dependent/related. If p > 0.05, you cannot conclude they are related. Lower p-value = stronger evidence of relationship.
  • How do I calculate expected values for CHISQ.TEST? For independence tests: Expected = (Row Total × Column Total) / Grand Total. Create a table of expected values using this formula for each cell. Or use: =row_sum*col_sum/grand_total for each cell.
  • What sample size do I need for chi-squared test? Rule of thumb: expected frequency in each cell should be at least 5. If expected values are too small, the test is unreliable. Consider combining categories or using Fisher's exact test for small samples.

Editorial review

  • Reviewed by Excel.Directory Editorial Team. Updated May 2026.