random # generator issues...

[Biff]

Hi MS,

With the parameters set at between 0 and 1, You will get
exactly that - numbers BETWEEN 0.0 and 1.0. Not a 0 or 1.
Also note that using the random number generator it is
possible to get duplicates. The best way to generate
random picks in XL:

Based on your sample of 850 rows. In any mt column, say A1,
enter 1. Then fill down as a series to row 850. In B1,
enter =RAND(). Then double click the fill handle and this
formula will be copied down to row 850. Now select both
columns. Goto Data>Sort. Sort on column B. Take the top 40
from column A as your random picks. I know this isn't
exactly what you wanted, but it's the easiest way without
using VBA.

Biff

 

[Michael and Amanda Shenouda]

Thank you so much Biff, this will work great, really appreciate this! BTW
just out of curiosity what is VBA

MS