Statistical

F.TEST Function in Excel

Returns the result of an F-test for variance comparison.

Syntax

  • =F.TEST(array1, array2)

Arguments

  • array1 (required): First data set
  • array2 (required): Second data set

Examples

  • =F.TEST(A1:A10, B1:B10) - F-test p-value - Result: p-value

F.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

  • Arrays must have at least 2 values

Use cases

  • Variance comparison
  • Hypothesis testing
  • Quality control

Frequently asked questions

  • What does F.TEST tell me? F.TEST compares variances of two samples. A low p-value (< 0.05) suggests the variances are significantly different. This is important before running t-tests, which assume equal variances. If variances differ, use Welch's t-test instead.
  • How do I interpret the F.TEST p-value? p > 0.05: No significant difference in variances (can assume equal variances). p < 0.05: Variances are significantly different. This is a two-tailed test, so it detects if either variance is larger than the other.
  • When should I use F.TEST vs T.TEST? F.TEST compares variances (spread). T.TEST compares means (center). Often you run F.TEST first to check if variances are equal, then choose the appropriate t-test. If F.TEST shows unequal variances, use T.TEST with type=3 (Welch's).

Editorial review

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