Random Selection

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Craig - 27 Sep 2007 16:27 GMT

Hello all,

I am attempting to generate a random group of names from a list and am
having a bit of trouble. In a previous posting I found the formula
=INDEX(A4:A15,INT(RAND()*(12-1)+1)), which is perfect for selecting a single
name. The trouble that I have is that I need a random sample of 20% of the
list. Copying the formula into multiple cells leaves open the chance that
any given name can be selected multiple times.

Does anyone know a way to perform this same function in subsequent cells,
while excluding previously selected names?

Thank you for your help.

Craig

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Max - 27 Sep 2007 16:37 GMT

One play ..

Assume Names listed in A4:A15
In B4: =RAND()
In C4: =INDEX($A$4:$A$15,RANK(B4,$B$4:$B$15))
Select B4:C4, copy down to C15. Hide away col B. C4:C15 will return a random
scramble of what's in A4:A15, refreshable via pressing the F9 key. Just point
to as many cells as you need in C4 down to grab your random x%.

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Max
Singapore
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> Hello all,
>
[quoted text clipped - 11 lines]
>
> Craig

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JE McGimpsey - 27 Sep 2007 16:40 GMT

One way:

http://www.mcgimpsey.com/excel/udfs/samplenoreplace.html

> Hello all,
>
[quoted text clipped - 11 lines]
>
> Craig

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Craig - 27 Sep 2007 17:18 GMT

Thank you both. These are tremendously helpful.

> One way:
>
[quoted text clipped - 15 lines]
> >
> > Craig

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