Select to get Random list

• charles-869346

  SSC Rookie

  Points: 28

  More actions

  February 22, 2010 at 6:55 am

  #215990

  I need to run a query that will get a random list of ids from a table. I was thinking of using the newid() function. The following is an example of the query I could use:

  select top 20 id

  from cases

  order by newid()

  This seems to work and if indeed this really gives me a truly randomized list, then I need to document how the newid() function works. A white paper on the function would be nice, but I can't find one.

  So, can anyone help with this. I need to be able to support my query for getting the selected list so that it can be approved by a state organization.

  Thanks,

  Chase

• Mike - CI

  SSCarpal Tunnel

  Points: 4146

  More actions

  February 22, 2010 at 1:03 pm

  #1123216

  I am not aware of any whitepapers on the newid function and the only documentation that I have seen is in books online.

  However if you want to write up your own, this post has some pretty good discussion of creating a random list using the NewID function (post 2 on).

  http://www.sqlservercentral.com/Forums/Topic666309-338-1.aspx