RAND function

The RAND function in Excel generates a random decimal number between 0 (inclusive) and 1 (exclusive). Each time the worksheet recalculates, the function produces a new random value.

Syntax

=RAND()

Key Features

1. No arguments: The RAND function does not take any parameters.
2. Volatile function: It recalculates every time the workbook is recalculated, such as when you enter new data, press F9, or modify a cell.
3. Output range: The output is always between 0 and less than 1.

Examples

1. Generate a random number between 0 and 1:

   =RAND()
   

   Example result: 0.8467

2. Generate a random number in a specific range: To generate a random number between a and b, use:

   =RAND() * (b - a) + a
   

   Example: For a random number between 10 and 20:

   =RAND() * (20 - 10) + 10
   

3. Generate a random integer in a specific range: Combine RAND with INT or ROUND:

   =INT(RAND() * (b - a + 1)) + a
   

   Example: For a random integer between 1 and 100:

   =INT(RAND() * 100) + 1
   

Tips

• If you don’t want RAND to change every time the worksheet recalculates, copy the cell containing RAND and paste it as a value using Ctrl + Alt + V → “Values.”
• For generating random numbers without decimals directly, consider using the RANDBETWEEN function.