Creating a Distribution Curve in Excel

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around creating a distribution curve in Excel, specifically in the context of Excel 2003. Participants are seeking guidance on how to generate this type of graph, which is related to statistical data representation.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses difficulty in finding how to create a distribution curve in Excel 2003 and requests assistance.
  • Another participant shares a link that may provide helpful instructions for drawing a distribution curve in Excel.
  • A third participant suggests that the Frequency function may need to be installed separately, indicating it might not be included in the standard installation package.
  • Another suggestion includes enabling the "Data Analysis" Add-in to access the Histogram feature, which can assist in creating the distribution curve.
  • There is a mention that while the FREQUENCY command may be cleaner, the Data Analysis tool offers additional features that could be beneficial.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple approaches to creating a distribution curve, indicating that there are competing methods and no consensus on a single solution.

Contextual Notes

There may be limitations related to the specific version of Excel being used, as well as potential dependencies on installed features or add-ins that are not universally available.

soul5
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Hi I'm trying to make a distribution curve in excel, but I can't seem to find it. I have excel 2003 I know how to make column graphs and stuff, but I can't seem to find where to find how to make a distribution curve can anyone help me?


Here is a link of the type of graph I want to make.

http://www.tushar-mehta.com/excel/charts/normal_distribution/images/normal2.gif

Please and Thank you for the help.
 
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rty640 said:

Wow, great link. Thanks.

I didn't read the link closely enough to tell, but it may also be that you have to install the part of Excel that has the Frequency function. It might come in the standard Install package, or it might be in one of the optional Math or Engineering Install options. So if you don't see the Frequency function in the function list on your Excel, check the Install CD to see if you can add it in.
 
Alternatively you can go to your Add-ins (under Tools I believe) and enable to "Data Analysis" Add-in (requires no cd). Then, under Tools > Data Analysis there at the bottom of the list, there will be Histogram.

You need to create an array for your "bounds". Then select your data, your bounds, and it outputs the frequency next to the bounds. From there you can bar/line graph whatever.

The FREQUENCY command is a little "cleaner", but the data analysis has some other nice little features in it. Check it out.
 

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