Selecting Records At Random

[adyf]

I have a table that contains 397 assessment questions and answers. Is there a way of pulling out a predetermined number of records at random? Would the random function be appropriate here?

[comment]

I would define an unstored calculation field (result is Number) = Random.

To get N random records, show all records, sort by the calculation field, go to record number N+1 and omit multiple records [Get (FoundCount) - N].

[adyf]

I would define an unstored calculation field (result is Number) = Random.

Thanks for the reply comment. So the first step for 40 records as an example would be (40)= Random? I suspect not because this returns a value of zero across all records.

[comment]

No, the first step would be to define a calculation field. Enter =

Random

as the formula, set the result type to Number, and storage options to 'Do not store…'

[adyf]

go to record number N+1 and

Sorted the random calculation. If N = 40, what's the best way to go to the 41st record now that they are in random order?

omit multiple records [Get (FoundCount) - N].

Do I use the Get(FoundCount) - N in the specify box of Omit All Records script step?

[comment]

what's the best way to go to the 41st record

Use the Go to Record/Request/Page[] script step.

Do I use the Get(FoundCount) - N in the specify box of Omit All Records script step?

Yes.

[adyf]

Works a treat, thank you very much!

I was expecting it to pull the same 40 records out every time I run the script but I'm delighted that it doesn't. That can only mean that the random value must be changing in each record, at what point does it do that?

[comment]

Unstored calculation fields are evaluated "as needed". When you call for records to be sorted by the field, that's when it's needed.