Returns the inverse of the cumulative beta probability density function. That is, if probability = BETADIST(x,...), then BETAINV(probability,...) = x. The cumulative beta distribution can be used in project planning to model probable completion times given an expected completion time and variability.
Syntax
BETAINV(probability,alpha,beta,A,B)
Probability is a probability associated with the beta distribution.
Alpha is a parameter to the distribution.
Beta is a parameter to the distribution.
A is an optional lower bound to the interval of x.
B is an optional upper bound to the interval of x.
Remarks
- If any argument is nonnumeric, BETAINV returns the #VALUE! error value.
- If alpha ≤ 0 or beta ≤ 0, BETAINV returns the #NUM! error value.
- If probability ≤ 0 or probability > 1, BETAINV returns the #NUM! error value.
- If you omit values for A and B, BETAINV uses the standard cumulative beta distribution, so that A = 0 and B = 1.
BETAINV uses an iterative technique for calculating the function. Given a probability value, BETAINV iterates until the result is accurate to within ±3x10-7. If BETAINV does not converge after 100 iterations, the function returns the #N/A error value.
Example
The example may be easier to understand if you copy it to a blank spreadsheet.
- Create a blank spreadsheet.
- Select the example in the Help topic.
Selecting an example from Help
- Press CTRL+C.
- In the spreadsheet, select cell A1, and press CTRL+V.
- To switch between viewing the formula that returns the result and the result in the cell, select the cell and press F2 and then ENTER, or click Commands and Options on the spreadsheet toolbar, click the Formula tab, and look in the Formula in active cell (active cell) box.
Data | Description |
---|---|
0.685470581 | Probability associated with the beta distribution |
8 | Parameter to the distribution |
10 | Parameter to the distribution |
1 | Lower bound |
3 | Upper bound |
Formula | Description (Result) |
=BETAINV(A2,A3,A4,A5,A6) | Inverse of the cumulative beta probability density function for the parameters above (2) |