How to Use Excel RAND Function (Examples + Video)

Excel RAND Function (Example + Video)

Excel RAND Function

When to use Excel RAND Function

RAND function can be used when you want to generate evenly distributed random numbers between 0 and 1.

What it Returns

It returns a number between 0 and 1.

Syntax

=RAND()

Input Arguments

  • RAND function does not take any input arguments. It is used with empty parenthesis.

Additional Notes

  • RAND is a volatile function and should be used with caution.
    • It recalculates whenever the excel workbook is open or whenever a calculation is triggered in the worksheet. This means that the value of RAND keeps on changing.
      • Since volatile functions re-calculates so often, it adds to the processing time and slow down your workbook.
    • It can be forced to recalculate by pressing the F9 key. This recalculates the entire workbook calculations.
  • If you want to use RAND to generate a random number but don’t want the numbers to change every time the cell is recalculated, enter =RAND() in the formula bar, and then press F9 to change the formula to a random number.
  • It is a good function to use when you want to generate values between 0% and 100%.

Excel RAND Function – Live Example

Excel RAND Function – Video Tutorial

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