With the new update to numbers, anytime I change any cell on the sheet, my rand() function changes throughout the entire workbook. How can I get it so the Rand() cells only change when I edit the cell with the rand() function or have a checkbox that when changed "randomizes" my numbers?
iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2013), OS X Yosemite (10.10.5)
This sounds like how it used to work in Numbers '09. The typical question was how to re-randomize the RAND functions without having to edit a cell. The answer was to put a checkbox in the table. Every time you checked or unchecked the checkbox, the functions would randomize.
As for your question, if they changed it to work like it used to, I doubt there is much you can do to reverse that.
The only way I can think of to freeze a set of random numbers is to create the list, in a column with functions, then select the column, copy, then select (let's say for now) the next column and then use the menu item "Edit > Paste Formula Results"
you would have to do this when ever you want to update the results.
usually I force rand() updates by using something like this:
=if(A1, rand(), rand())
AND I format A1 as a check box. this way when I change the checkbox I get new random numbers
Wayne Contello wrote:
usually I force rand() updates by using something like this:
=if(A1, rand(), rand())
AND I format A1 as a check box. this way when I change the checkbox I get new random numbers
Right. That was the workaround for when they changed how it worked between Number 09 and 3. It looks like they went back to the old way where all you need to do is change anything on the table (like a checkbox) and al the RANDs update.
"The only way I can think of to freeze a set of random numbers is to create the list, in a column with functions, then select the column, copy, then select (let's say for now) the next column and then use the menu item "Edit > Paste Formula Results""
That my be the only way.
I noticed an inconsistency in when RAND cells update or not. Editing a cell will make them update but deleting content from a cell (select cell, Delete, Enter) does not. even if formulas in other cells in the table rely on the content of that cell.
How do I freeze the Rand() in the New update to Numbers?
