Microsoft provides T-SQL developers with three functions (rand, newid, and crypt_gen_random) for generating random numbers. Each of these functions is effective at returning random values, but feature sets associated with each function make them best suited to different use cases. This tip’s Solution section presents an overview of common use cases for random numbers in SQL Server along with references to learn more about random numbers in SQL Server.

How Do You Know You Are Right?

by drsql@hotmail.com

SQLServerCentral

Uncategorized

I spend a significant amount of time working alone at my desk. I write articles, edit them, and share my opinions. However, I am constantly concerned about being wrong. How can I overcome this feeling? If this were a live session, I would eagerly listen to the answers to this question. Since it isn't, I […]

Database DevOps Recommendations

by Steve Jones

SQLServerCentral

DevOps and Continuous Delivery (CI/CD)

DevOps and databases aren't always considered compatible, but that is changing. DORA now has recommendations for database changes on their site.

Date and Time Calculations Made Easy with EOMONTH, DATEDIFF, and DATEADD

by omu

SQLServerCentral

Learn how to work with dates and calculate particular dates or elapsed time periods with some of the functions available in SQL Server.

Exploring the SQL Server CHOOSE Function

by Additional Articles

MSSQLTips.com

Uncategorized

I preface a lot of what I write with whether or not it is for a “practical” use. One of the Simple Talk authors used this function in a forthcoming article. and I realized I hadn’t heard of it before (or I forgot about it… which is not completely unlikely.) The practical use was to generate some data and have at least a little variety to the values.

How Helpful is a GenAI Copilot

by Steve Jones

SQLServerCentral

Uncategorized

Steve looks at a trial using Microsoft's Copilot and how helpful it was for workers.

SQL Server Cursor Example

by Additional Articles

MSSQLTips.com

cursor
T-SQL

I know SQL cursors exist, but I am not sure how or why to use them. Can you provide a SQL cursor example? Can you give any guidance on when to use a SQL Server cursor?

Rising Pay for Certifications

by Steve Jones

SQLServerCentral

Career Growth

People with certifications are seeing their pay rise faster than others. Steve has a few thoughts on this today.

Building AI Calls into the First Responder Kit

by Additional Articles

Brent Ozar Blog

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

No, that isn’t an April 1st joke, heh. I know a lot of vendors are shoving AI down your throat, but I can think of a few ways I actually want to get quick, easy advice from large language models (LLM) when I’m calling the sp_Blitz scripts:

Just Answer the Question!

by Grant Fritchey

SQLServerCentral

Uncategorized

I've taken part in online forums since... hoo boy, I was using a dial up modem and had to constantly remind my wife not to pick up the phone while I was using the computer. Man I'm old. Anyway... I've asked a lot of questions over the years, and I've tried to answer them as […]

Evaluating the Randomness of SQL Server Random Number Functions

How Do You Know You Are Right?

Database DevOps Recommendations

Date and Time Calculations Made Easy with EOMONTH, DATEDIFF, and DATEADD

Exploring the SQL Server CHOOSE Function

How Helpful is a GenAI Copilot

SQL Server Cursor Example

Rising Pay for Certifications

Building AI Calls into the First Responder Kit

Just Answer the Question!

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