Statistical

FREQUENCY Function in Excel

Returns a frequency distribution as a vertical array.

Syntax

  • =FREQUENCY(data_array, bins_array)

Arguments

  • data_array (required): Values to count
  • bins_array (required): Interval boundaries

Examples

  • =FREQUENCY(A1:A100, B1:B5) - Count values in bins - Result: Frequency array

FREQUENCY 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

  • Returns array one larger than bins

Use cases

  • Histogram data
  • Distribution analysis
  • Data binning

Frequently asked questions

  • What is FREQUENCY function used for? FREQUENCY counts how many values fall into specified intervals (bins), creating histogram data. It returns an array showing the count in each bin, essential for understanding data distribution, creating histograms, and statistical analysis.
  • Why does FREQUENCY return one more value than bins? FREQUENCY returns n+1 values for n bins. The extra value counts items greater than the largest bin. Example: bins {10,20,30} returns 4 counts: ≤10, 11-20, 21-30, and >30. This ensures all data is categorized.
  • How do I use FREQUENCY in modern Excel? In Excel 365, FREQUENCY spills automatically: =FREQUENCY(data, bins). In older versions, select output range, enter formula, press Ctrl+Shift+Enter. For dynamic histograms, combine with SEQUENCE to generate bins automatically.

Editorial review

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