In this article
CHIINV returns the chi-square critical value. It is a compatibility function: Excel keeps it so workbooks from Excel 2007 and earlier still calculate, but Microsoft recommends CHISQ.INV.RT for new work. Both give the same result.
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Syntax
=CHIINV(probability, deg_freedom)| Argument | What it means |
|---|---|
probability |
e.g. 0.05 |
deg_freedom |
df |
Examples
Example 1
=ROUND(CHIINV(A2,B2),3)Result: 3.841. See the worked example table below for more cases.
💡 For new workbooks use CHISQ.INV.RT: it gives the same answer and is the name Microsoft keeps documenting.
CHIINV in practice
Where you will use it
- Opening and checking older workbooks that use CHIINV
- Understanding formulas shared by colleagues on older Excel versions
- Knowing when to swap in CHISQ.INV.RT for clarity
Worked example
| alpha | df | Formula | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.05 | 1 | =ROUND(CHIINV(A2,B2),3) | 3.841 |
| 0.05 | 3 | =ROUND(CHIINV(A3,B3),3) | 7.815 |
| 0.01 | 3 | =ROUND(CHIINV(A4,B4),3) | 11.345 |
Results calculated in Excel. Same result as CHISQ.INV.RT.
Mistakes people make
| Mistake | What to do instead |
|---|---|
| Using CHIINV in new files | Prefer CHISQ.INV.RT: same result, clearer name, and the function Microsoft keeps improving |
| Mixing old and new names in one model | Pick one style per workbook so formulas are easy to audit |
Related functions
📚 Part of the free Excel course: Beginner → Expert · Try it in the Formula Lab or ask the AI Helper.
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