Reference > Functions reference > Number functions > Random
 

Random

Returns a number between 0 and 1, including 0 but not including 1.

Format 

Random

Parameters 

None

Data type returned 

number

Originated in 

FileMaker Pro 6.0 or earlier

Description 

Returns a pseudo-random number in the range (0,1). FileMaker Pro Advanced generates a new random number when you:

insert the Random function into a formula

cause a formula containing the Random function to be reevaluated (by changing data in any of the fields the formula uses)

display or access a calculation field defined to have an unstored result

Example 1 

Int ( Random * 10 ) returns a random number from 0 to 9.

Example 2 

Int ( Dice::NumSides * Random ) + 1 returns a randomly chosen side of a single die.

The following script calculates multiple die rolls, adds the rolls to a single variable, then displays the results in a custom dialog.

Loop
Set Variable [$ROLL; Value:$ROLL + ( Int ( Test::NumSides * Random ) + 1 )]
Set Variable [$COUNTER; Value:$COUNTER + 1]
Exit Loop If [$COUNTER = Dice::NumDice]
End Loop
Show Custom Dialog [$ROLL]

Related topics 

Functions reference (category list)

Functions reference (alphabetical list)

About formulas

About functions

Defining calculation fields

Using operators in formulas