Text and processing

The shuf command

Randomly shuffles lines, values or a range of numbers. Handy for draws and tests.

Syntax

shuf [-n N] [-e valores | -i 1-10 | archivo]

Most useful options

-eShuffles the values you pass
-iShuffles a range, e.g. 1-10
-nReturns only N results

Copy-ready examples

$ shuf -i 1-49 -n 6Six random numbers
$ shuf -e oro plata bronceShuffle a list

You can try them in the browser terminal: it does not touch your computer.

Typical mistakes

  • It can repeat if you give repeated values; for no repetition use a range.

Related commands

sorthead

FAQ

Can shuf be used for a fair draw?

Yes: shuf -i 1-100 -n 1 returns a random number.

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