Permutation coding for improved memory cell operations are described. An example apparatus can include an array of memory cells each programmable to a plurality of states. A controller coupled to the array is configured to determine an encoded data pattern stored by a number of groups of memory cells. Each of the number of groups comprises a set of memory cells programmed to one of a plurality of different collective state permutations each corresponding to a permutation in which the cells of the set are each programmed to a different one of the plurality of states to which they are programmable. The controller is configured to determine the encoded data pattern by, for each of the number of groups, determining the one of the plurality of different collective state permutations to which the respective set is programmed by direct comparison of threshold voltages of the cells of the set.