Question
What is the difference between combinations and permutations?
Combinations ignore order, while permutations count different orders as different outcomes.
Math
Use OmniCalc's permutation and combination calculator to count possible selections when order matters or does not matter.
Permutation and combination calculator
Enter the total number of items, how many are selected, and whether order matters to calculate combinations or permutations instantly.
Why this result matters
A distinct combinatorics page that broadens the math/stats wedge beyond inference into counting problems with strong classroom and exam intent. Use the tool above to enter a few clear inputs and get a practical answer you can use right away.
This permutation and combination calculator helps students quickly compute nCr and nPr values without expanding factorial formulas by hand. Enter the total number of items, the number selected, and whether order matters to get the answer instantly.
Formula and method
For combinations, the calculator uses nCr = n! / (r! × (n-r)!). For permutations, it uses nPr = n! / (n-r)!.
Example
If you choose 3 items from 10, there are 120 combinations when order does not matter and 720 permutations when order matters.
FAQ
Short answers to the questions people often ask before or after using the tool.
Question
Combinations ignore order, while permutations count different orders as different outcomes.
Question
Use combinations when you only care which items are chosen, not the order they appear in.
Question
Use permutations when the arrangement matters, such as ranking winners or assigning positions.
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