Random number from fixed set of options

To quickly fill a range of cells with random numbers from a set of fixed options (i.e. 25,50,75,100), you can use a formula based on the CHOOSE and RANDBETWEEN functions. In the example shown, the formula in B4 is: =CHOOSE(RANDBETWEEN(1,4),25,50,75,100) Which returns a random number from the numbers provided.

April 14, 2025 · 1 min · 71 words · Stephanie Orozco

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Explanation

The CHOOSE function does most of the work in this formula.

When this formula is copied down, it will return one of the four numbers.

Note that RANDBETWEEN will calculate a new value whenever the worksheet is changed.

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The values provided to CHOOSE can include references.

RANDBETWEEN Function

The Excel RANDBETWEEN function returns a random integer between two given numbers.

RANDBETWEEN recalculates each time a worksheet is opened or changed.

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Excel CHOOSE function

Excel RANDBETWEEN function