What does the NORMDIST function calculate?

The NORMDIST function is used to calculate the cumulative distribution function (CDF) for a normal distribution. Specifically, it provides the probability that a normally distributed random variable is less than or equal to a specified value. This function is essential in statistics as it helps determine how likely it is for data to fall within a certain range when the data follows a normal distribution pattern.

By using the NORMDIST function, users can assess probabilities associated with normally distributed data, which is crucial for various applications such as risk assessment, quality control, and decision-making processes in fields ranging from finance to engineering. Understanding the cumulative distribution is key for interpreting and analyzing data efficiently, especially when working with means and standard deviations.