PERCENTILE function

Returns the k-th percentile of values in a range. You can use this function to establish a threshold of acceptance. For example, you can decide to examine candidates who score above the 90th percentile.

Important: 

  • This function has been replaced with one or more new functions that may provide improved accuracy and whose names better reflect their usage. Although this function is still available for backward compatibility, you should consider using the new functions from now on, because this function may not be available in future versions of Excel. 

  • For more information about the new functions, see PERCENTILE.EXC function and PERCENTILE.INC function.

Syntax

PERCENTILE(array,k)

The PERCENTILE function syntax has the following arguments:

  • array     Required. The array or range of data that defines relative standing.

  • k  Required. The percentile value in the range 0..1, inclusive.

Remarks

  • If k is non-numeric, PERCENTILE returns the #VALUE! error value.

  • If k is < 0 or if k > 1, PERCENTILE returns the #NUM! error value.

  • If k is not a multiple of 1/(n - 1), PERCENTILE interpolates to determine the value at the k-th percentile.

Example

In this example, we'll find the 30th percentile of the list in cells E2:E5.

Excel PERCENTILE function to return the 30th percentile of a given range with =PERCENTILE(E2:E5,0.3).

Need more help?

You can always ask an expert in the Excel Tech Community or get support in Communities.

Was this information helpful?

To protect your privacy, please do not include contact information in your feedback. Review our Privacy policy.