Math & Trig

COMBIN Function in Excel

Returns the number of combinations for a given number of items.

Syntax

  • =COMBIN(number, number_chosen)

Arguments

  • number (required): Total number of items
  • number_chosen (required): Items in each combination

Examples

  • =COMBIN(10, 3) - Combinations of 10 choose 3 - Result: 120

COMBIN in reporting workflows

  • Use absolute references when copying formulas across rows.
  • For conditional totals see [SUMIF](/functions/sumif/) and [SUMIFS](/functions/sumifs/).
  • Filtered lists may need [SUBTOTAL](/functions/subtotal/) instead of SUM on visible cells only.

Common errors

  • #NUM! if number_chosen > number

Use cases

  • Probability
  • Statistics
  • Lottery calculations

Frequently asked questions

  • What is COMBIN in Excel? COMBIN calculates combinations - the number of ways to choose items where order doesn't matter. COMBIN(10,3)=120 means there are 120 ways to choose 3 items from 10. Used in probability, lottery odds, and statistics.
  • What is the difference between COMBIN and PERMUT? COMBIN counts combinations (order doesn't matter): choosing ABC is same as CBA. PERMUT counts permutations (order matters): ABC and CBA are different. PERMUT(10,3)=720 vs COMBIN(10,3)=120.
  • How do I calculate lottery odds with COMBIN? For a 6/49 lottery: =COMBIN(49,6) returns 13,983,816 possible combinations. Your odds of winning are 1 in 13.98 million. For Powerball-style: =COMBIN(69,5)*26 for main numbers times bonus ball options.

Editorial review

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