How to Generate Random Numbers in Python Without External Functions

How can I generate random numbers in Python without using any external functions?

import time

# Function to generate random number based on the current time

def simple_random(seed):
    # Seed from the current time
    curr_time = int(time.time() * 1000)
    random_number = (curr_time + seed) % 100
    return random_number

# Example usage
seed_value = 5
random_num = simple_random(seed_value)
print(f'Random Number: {random_num}')

Generating random numbers in Python without using external libraries requires a basic understanding of algorithms and some built-in functions. This guide demonstrates how to create a simple random number generator based on the current time and a seed value.

import time

# Function to generate random number based on the current time

def simple_random(seed):
    # Seed from the current time
    curr_time = int(time.time() * 1000)
    random_number = (curr_time + seed) % 100
    return random_number

# Example usage
seed_value = 5
random_num = simple_random(seed_value)
print(f'Random Number: {random_num}')

Causes

• Understanding the need for a simple approach to generating random numbers without libraries.
• Recognizing Python's built-in functionalities that serve the purpose.

Solutions

• Use the built-in `time` library to get the current time as a seed.
• Calculate a random number using a simple arithmetic operation involving the seed.

Mistake: Using a constant seed for generating random numbers, which leads to predictable results.

Solution: Always use a dynamically changing seed, such as the current time, to ensure different results.

Mistake: Expecting high-quality randomness from a basic algorithm.

Solution: Understand the limitations of the algorithm and use it only for non-critical applications.