Just wondered what you were referring to. All random number generators that
I have heard about are based on mathematical formulas that generate a
repeatable sequence of numbers that can be considered random (thus the term
psuedo-random) based on specific statistical tests. Some generators have a
larger/longer period than others (how many numbers are generated before the
sequence repeats).

So you are correct that a random number generator produces numbers from a
repeatable list so to speak. But after all, you wouldn't want a math
function that produces different answers for the same inputs.

--
Regards,
Tom Ogilvy

"Nigel" wrote in message
...
Hi Tom
I have been caught out before when I stated that Excel produces 'random
numbers'. As I understand it Excel uses a matematical formula to create a
pseudo random number sequence, where there is a relationship between
succesive numbers. See http://support.microsoft.com/kb/q86523/ which
describes this relationship. I personally have not conducted any tests
(and
do not intend to!) but I am prepared to accept the assertion by MS that
this
process will generate up 1 million unique numbers.

This is all rather academic as the OP requirements are fairly simplistic
and
will not be comprimised by this limitation - as he has confirmed. As I
said
just being cautious!

--
Cheers
Nigel



"Tom Ogilvy" wrote in message
...
(Note:
The random function is not a random as you might think but for this
purpose
it might suit you?)

What are you referring to?

--
Regards,
Tom Ogilvy


"Nigel" wrote in message
...
One way would be to put in a column say H the Rand() function for each
row
with a name in column G. Then sort the list G:H using column H.
Since
the Rand() function is volatile - everytime the worksheet is changed
the
values are re-computed and repeated sorts will produce random lists.
(Note:
The random function is not a random as you might think but for this
purpose
it might suit you?)



--
Cheers
Nigel



"Greg" wrote in message
...
I would like to know how to get excel to make a random list of the
names
i
have in column g.

Is this possible?


Greg