Next, you'll need to determine the range of numbers that corresponds to the number of names in your list. Step 1: Create a List of NamesĪs before, the first step is to create a list of names in Excel. This function generates a random integer between two specified numbers.

If you prefer to skip the step of assigning a random number to each name, you can use the RANDBETWEEN function instead. This is your randomly selected name! Using the RANDBETWEEN Function The list will now be sorted by the random numbers, which means that the name with the highest (or lowest) number will be at the top of the list. Make sure to select 'Expand the selection' so that the entire row is sorted, not just the column with the random numbers. Choose 'Sort Smallest to Largest' or 'Sort Largest to Smallest' depending on your preference. Select the entire range of cells that includes both the names and the random numbers.Ĭlick on the 'Sort & Filter' button in the 'Editing' section of the 'Home' tab. Now that each name has a random number assigned to it, you can sort the list by that number to select a random name. Each name should now have a random number assigned to it. This will generate a random number between 0 and 1.Ĭopy this formula down to the rest of the cells in the column. In an empty cell next to the first name in your list, enter the formula '=RAND()'. To do this, you'll use the RAND function. Next, you'll need to assign a random number to each name in your list.

Step 2: Assign a Random Number to Each Name Make sure that each name is in its own cell. This can be done in a single column or multiple columns, depending on your preference. The first step in selecting a random name in Excel is to create a list of names. By using this function in combination with other Excel functions, you can create a formula that will randomly select a name from a list. The RAND function in Excel generates a random number between 0 and 1. Whether you're choosing a winner for a contest or picking a name for a new project, Excel can help you make a random selection quickly and easily.

Excel is a powerful tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, including selecting random names.

Random name