Random Sample

[Kelly]

Hello all-
I have a list of numbers, 1 through about 9,000 used as a
primary key for a list of names. I need to have a random
sample of 200 names (numbers) generated. Is there a
formula to do this? Without writing a macro? Many thanks
as usual to anyone with any input!!!

Kelly : )

 

[Andy B]

Hi

In the empty column alongside your data type =RAND() and fill this down.
Every time the sheet recalculates (or you pres F9) these numbers will
change. You can sort on this column and use the top 200 names.

 

[theillknight]

How about (assuming cells to be sampled are all in column A):

=INDIRECT("a"&ROUND(RAND()*8999+1,0))

Then, simply copy that formula for the remaining 199 cells to get you
200 samples.

This formula will produce duplicates from time to time, however, so i
that's a problem then you'll need something else