random variable with normal distribution

[travis]

How could I get a random number which follows a normal
distribution curve, preferably with editable mean and
standard deviation? I think it would be some combination
of RAND() and NORMDIST, but I'm not sure how exactly to
make it work. Thank you.

 

[Juan Sanchez]

Travis

Go to Tools > Add-Ins then check the box for Analisi
ToolPak (Usually second form top to bottom) Click OK

Then go to Tools, there should be a new menu under Data
Analysis click it and youl get a combo list... go to
Random Number Generation choose Normal on the distribution
drop down list... I Think U can follow on your own form
here...

Cheers...JS

 

[Max]

Another way:

Let's assume you have 5 sets of
means and standard deviations in A2:B6

Put in C2: =NORMINV(RAND(),A2,B2)
Copy C2 down to C6

This will generate one random number in col C
per set of mean and standard deviation in cols A and B

But please note the usual caveats (highlighted by Harlan in a previous
post):
http://www.google.com/groups?selm=404FE2F0.8020308@no_e-mail.com