Gareth -

The Discrete option of the Random Number Generation tool (part of the
Analysis ToolPak add-in) will generate static random numbers from a
specified discrete probability distribution. Click Help on the Random Number
Generation dialog box to see descriptions of the various options and how the
data must be arranged. For example, before using the Discrete option, you
should enter the values and probabilities of your discrete distribution into
adjacent columns of your worksheet, with values on the left and
probabilities on the right. And, those discrete probabilities should sum to
1.000.

You do not need to use the VLOOKUP worksheet function to obtain static
random numbers. The VLOOKUP function is sometimes used with RAND to obtain
dynamic random numbers (so you get a different set of random numbers each
time you press the F9 key).

If you need more information, please describe what results you want in more
detail. Also, describe how your data is arranged, what you are doing, and
what happens or doesn't happen.

- Mike
http://www.MikeMiddleton.com


"Gareth_80" wrote in message
...
Hi there,

I have been shown how to use the VLOOKUP function and the Random Number
Generation table to pick a random selction of questions and answers from a
data range. I keep getting the message "Numbers in discrete probability
column must have a sum of 1" but I have no idea what that means.
Unfortunately the person is no longer available and, try as I might, I
can't
find any resource to tell me (in plain English) what the fields actually
mean. Can anyone please help?

Kind regards

Gareth