How to Generate Random Text in Word with =lorem() and =rand()

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Quick answer: In desktop Microsoft Word, type =lorem(3,2) on a blank paragraph and press Enter to insert three paragraphs of Lorem Ipsum placeholder text, with two sentences per paragraph. Use =rand(4,5) to generate four paragraphs of Word sample text with five sentences each. These commands help you test page layouts without writing actual content.

Word provides built-in placeholder-text commands: =lorem() produces pseudo-Latin filler text, while =rand() produces English sample paragraphs. These are Word text-generation commands, not Excel formulas. The output is placeholder content, not genuinely random prose; it should never be treated as factual or publication-ready writing. They work in the document body when Word recognizes the command at the beginning of a paragraph; behavior can vary by Word version and AutoCorrect settings.

Lorem Ipsum text in Word

Demonstration of generating Lorem Ipsum placeholder paragraphs in Word

Place the insertion point at the start of a blank paragraph in the document body.
Type =lorem(3,2) and press Enter.
- The first number sets the number of paragraphs; the second sets the approximate number of sentences per paragraph.
- Typing =lorem() uses Word’s default amount of placeholder text. Defaults can vary, so specify both numbers when you need a predictable layout.

Generate English Sample Text with =rand()

The =rand() command inserts English sample text that is useful for checking typography, margins, columns, and pagination. The wording of the sample paragraphs can vary across Word releases. Older Word tutorials may mention =rand.old(2,3) for classic sample text; support can differ by edition.

Demonstration of generating English sample paragraphs in Word

To insert English sample text:

Place the cursor at the beginning of a blank paragraph.
Type =rand(4,5) and press Enter.
- Replace the first number with the desired paragraph count and the second with the desired sentence count.
- You can also type =rand() to use Word’s default amount of sample text.

Why Is =lorem() or =rand() Not Working?

Check the equals sign: Enter =lorem(2,3), not lorem(2,3).
Use a blank paragraph: Type the command on its own line in the document body, then press Enter.
Check AutoCorrect: In desktop Word for Windows, open File → Options → Proofing → AutoCorrect Options and review the Replace text as you type setting if Word leaves the command unchanged.
Check the app: Word for the web and mobile versions may not support the same placeholder-text shortcuts as desktop Word.

Frequently asked questions

Is the generated text actually random? No. Word inserts built-in sample passages; repeated commands may produce the same text. For realistic document testing, include real headings, lists, tables, and images as well.

Can I choose an exact word count? Not with these commands. The arguments specify paragraphs and sentences, not words. Check the final word count in Word’s status bar.

When to Use Placeholder Text

Use sample paragraphs to test line spacing, fonts, page breaks, and document templates before final copy is available. Replace all placeholder text before distributing a finished report. For formatting help, see our guide to text wrapping in Word.