Syntax
PERMUT(n, k)
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| n | Parameter of the PERMUT function. |
| k | Parameter of the PERMUT function. |
Examples
PIN combinations
Formula
=PERMUT(10, 4)
Returns 5,040. There are 5,040 possible 4-digit PINs using digits 0-9 without repeating any digit.
Race podium
Formula
=PERMUT(8, 3)
Returns 336. With 8 runners, there are 336 possible gold-silver-bronze outcomes.
Two from five
Formula
=PERMUT(5, 2)
Returns 20. Choosing 2 items from 5 where AB is different from BA gives 20 arrangements.
Common Errors
#NUM!
k cannot exceed n. =PERMUT(3, 5) returns #NUM! because you can't arrange 5 items from only 3.
#VALUE!
Non-numeric arguments return #VALUE!.
Tips
PERMUT vs COMBIN
PERMUT(n,k) = COMBIN(n,k) × FACT(k). Permutations count each arrangement; combinations group them. PERMUT is always >= COMBIN.
Order matters
If you're assigning people to ranked positions (1st, 2nd, 3rd), use PERMUT. If you're just picking a group, use COMBIN.
No repetition allowed
PERMUT doesn't allow the same item twice. For permutations with repetition, use PERMUTA or simply n^k.
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