In this article
NORMSINV returns z for a probability. It is a compatibility function: Excel keeps it so workbooks from Excel 2007 and earlier still calculate, but Microsoft recommends NORM.S.INV for new work. Both give the same result.
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Syntax
=NORMSINV(probability)| Argument | What it means |
|---|---|
probability |
0..1 |
Examples
Example 1
=ROUND(NORMSINV(A2),4)Result: 1.96. See the worked example table below for more cases.
💡 For new workbooks use NORM.S.INV: it gives the same answer and is the name Microsoft keeps documenting.
NORMSINV in practice
Where you will use it
- Opening and checking older workbooks that use NORMSINV
- Understanding formulas shared by colleagues on older Excel versions
- Knowing when to swap in NORM.S.INV for clarity
Worked example
| p | Formula | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 0.975 | =ROUND(NORMSINV(A2),4) | 1.96 |
| 0.95 | =ROUND(NORMSINV(A3),4) | 1.6449 |
| 0.5 | =ROUND(NORMSINV(A4),4) | 0 |
Results calculated in Excel. Same result as NORM.S.INV.
Mistakes people make
| Mistake | What to do instead |
|---|---|
| Using NORMSINV in new files | Prefer NORM.S.INV: 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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