This blog post will discuss how to use the frequency function in Microsoft Excel. The frequency function helps classify a set of data into ranges and is commonly used in creating charts such as histograms. This function allows you to quickly count how many values occur within a given range.
We will use a simple data set with marks between 0 and 100, with 30 entries. We will first understand the syntax of the frequency function and then create a range of values. Then, we will calculate the frequency of values within each range.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you understand how to use the frequency function in Excel.
Understanding the syntax of the frequency function
The frequency function takes two arguments: the data array and the bins array. The data array is the sample data we will use to create the frequency from. The bins array is used to classify the data into ranges.
Create a range of values
You should enter the data array and bins array in the sheet for which you want to calculate the frequency. In this example, we have created a range of values: 0-60, 60-70, 70-80, and 80-90. Then create bins for each range. Such as for 0 to 60, the bin is 60; for 60 to 70, the bin is 70 and so on.
Use the frequency function to calculate the frequency
In the next step, we will use the frequency function to calculate the frequency values that fall within each range. To do this, we will enter the formula =FREQUENCY(data_array, bins_array) in the cell where we want to see the frequency.
In our case, it will become =FREQUENCY(A2:A30,D3:D7). Press Enter to get the value.
Creating a chart (Optional)
You can easily create a histogram chart to visualise the data. The chart will show how many students scored within each range. To insert the chart, simply select the range of values and frequency values, go to the Insert tab, and select the preferred chart.
Conclusion
The frequency function in Excel is a valuable tool for classifying data into ranges and counting the frequency of values that fall within each range. We hope this guide helps you to understand how to use the frequency function in Excel.
