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?

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].

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.

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…'

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?

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.

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?

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