Education Technology

Solution 34884: Using the rand() Function on the TI-83 Plus and TI-84 Plus Family of Graphing Calculators. 

How can I use the rand() function on the TI-84 Plus family of graphing calculators? 

Please Note: It is necessary to set the seed value, if you have not previously, by following the steps in KB#34503.

The proper syntax for using the rand( function is listed below:

rand(number of trials)

The rand( function returns a random number between 0 and 1 for the specified number of trials.

To generate 3 random numbers between 0 and 1, follow the steps provided below:

1) From the main screen, press [MATH] [Left Arrow] to select PROB menu.
2) Press [1] to select 1:rand (rand will be displayed on the main screen).

3) Press [(] [3] [)] and [ENTER] and the calculator will display the 3 randomly generated numbers.

4) In order to view the entirety of the three generated numbers, use the [Right Arrow] to scroll right.

To generate random numbers beyond the range of 0 to 1, users can include rand in an expression. For example, rand*5 generates a random number > 0 and < 5.

Please see the TI-83 Plus and TI-84 Plus Family guidebooks for additional information.