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How to generate random numbers in Excel and Google Sheets
Topic:Data cleaning & shapingExcel & Google Sheets
=RANDBETWEEN(1,100)✓
Verified example
Computed by a real spreadsheet engine on the sample data below.
| Random Number |
=RANDBETWEEN(1,100)→100
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Step by step
- 1For a random integer in a range, type =RANDBETWEEN(1,100) — replace 1 and 100 with your lower and upper bounds.
- 2For a random decimal between 0 and 1, use =RAND(). To scale it, multiply: =RAND()*100 gives a decimal between 0 and 100.
- 3To freeze the random values so they don't change, copy the cells and Paste Special → Values Only.
Tips
- To generate a random selection from a list, combine RAND with RANK: add a RAND() column next to your list, then RANK each random number to shuffle the order without duplicates.
Need it for your exact data?
Describe your columns in plain English and get the precise formula for your sheet, with the right Excel or Sheets syntax.
Frequently asked
Why do my random numbers change every time I edit the sheet?
RAND and RANDBETWEEN are volatile — they recalculate whenever anything changes. Paste as values to lock them permanently.
How do I generate random numbers without repeats?
Use RAND() in a helper column and RANK() to assign unique positions, then INDEX into your source list using those ranks.
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