Lower bound check
| A | |
|---|---|
| 1 | Check |
Formula: C2: =RAND()>=0
Result: TRUE
Every generated value is at least zero.
Google Sheets function
RAND in Google Sheets
RAND in Google Sheets is volatile: it gives a new number on every recalculation, and the Calculation setting under File, Settings decides whether that also happens every minute or every hour.
Syntax (same in Google Sheets)
RAND()A fixed random value needs Paste special, Values only.
For a fuller explanation of the arguments and common errors, see the RAND Excel guide.
Worked examples in Google Sheets
Upper bound check
| A | |
|---|---|
| 1 | Check |
Formula: C2: =RAND()<1
Result: TRUE
The upper endpoint one is excluded.
Scale a fixed-width interval
| A | |
|---|---|
| 1 | Width |
| 2 | 0 |
Formula: C2: =10+RAND()*A2
Result: 10
A zero width keeps this verification stable while showing the usual lower + RAND()*width pattern.
Try it
A tiny spreadsheet with example data. Edit the formula or any number and see the result.
Formula in D2: =RAND()
| A | B | C | D | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Number | Step | Result | |
| 2 | 1234.567 | 50 | 0.064242551837 | |
| 3 | 17 | 5 | ||
| 4 | -4.7 | 12 | ||
| 5 | 144 | 9 | ||
| 6 | 2.5 | 3 | ||
| 7 | 50 | 12 |
Result in D2: 0.064242551837
Frequently asked questions
- Why does RAND keep changing in my Google Sheets file?
- RAND recalculates whenever the sheet does, including after any edit. Paste its result as values to freeze it, or relax the recalculation setting under File, Settings, Calculation.
Google Sheets is used here only as a descriptive product name. FormulaCamp is not affiliated with Google.