Fresh Excel Tips

To generate randomized values in a specified range, such as from 1 to 49, use the RANDBETWEEN function. This function returns a random number in the range you specify, returning a new random number every time the worksheet is calculated. If this function is not available and returns the #NAME? error, install and load the
Analysis ToolPak add-in. Here is the syntax that is used:
RANDBETWEEN(bottom, top)
bottom: The lowest integer in the range.
top: The highest integer in the range.

To create random values from 1 to 49:

1. Select cells A2:D10 and type the following formula: =RANDBETWEEN(1,49).
2. Press Ctrl+Enter.
3. Press Ctrl+C to copy the filled cells.
4. From the Edit menu, select Paste Special.
5. In the Paste Special dialog box, select the Values option button to paste only the values, and click OK.

Random values are sometimes used for mathematic studies or for programming a lottery.

This tip is compatible with Excel 97, 2000, 2003 and 2007.

1. How to Use the RAND function to generate random values in Excel
2. Using the SUM function to Sum a Range of Values in Excel
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4. How to use a Validation List in Excel to Validate Entries
5. How to Use the MAX function to find the largest value in a range