Choose 3 random strings from array that are different than another string?

[Objective Zero]

Hey,

I want to choose 3 NSStrings from an NSArray. I also have a string named answerString. With these 3 NSStrings they cannot be the same as answerString (answerString is a NSString that is in this NSArray also).

Is it possible to create 3 NSStrings that are unique from answerString without having to do anything too complicated?

I just need some tips on how to go upon this!

Thanks!

[dapis]

Originally Posted by Objective Zero

Hey,

I want to choose 3 NSStrings from an NSArray. I also have a string named answerString. With these 3 NSStrings they cannot be the same as answerString (answerString is a NSString that is in this NSArray also).

Is it possible to create 3 NSStrings that are unique from answerString without having to do anything too complicated?

I just need some tips on how to go upon this!

Thanks!

There's a simple solution to this common type of problem.

Generate a random ordering of the strings (say by shuffling an array that includes all the strings except for the answer string) and then choose the first
three strings in the result.

[Objective Zero]

Ive never heard of shuffling a array before. Do you have any links or anything to help me get this?

[baja_yu]

How about searching for "shuffle array" here: iPhone Dev SDK Forum - Search Forums

[Objective Zero]

Wow, that really helped and fixed my issue thanks!

[baja_yu]

You're welcome. And feel free to Search the forum more often. A lot of common tasks and problems were already asked and answered here, some many times.