Random Name Picker: Choose Names at Random from Your List
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Paste your list of names and press Pick. Each name has the same chance, and you can stop names from repeating.
The picker will choose 1 of 8 names each time. Every name has the same chance, 12.5% per pick, and a name that was picked leaves the pool until you start over.
8 of 8 names left in the pool.
Show the steps
- The list is read one name per line, 8 names in all.
- Each pick uses your browser’s secure random number generator to choose 1 different names, each with probability 1 ÷ 8.
- Picked names are removed from the pool, so everyone is chosen once before anyone repeats.
Estimates for planning and learning, not financial, tax, legal or medical advice. Check figures with your lender, tax preparer or doctor before you act.
About this calculator
A random name picker removes bias when you need to choose someone. Teachers use it to call on students, pick helpers or choose who presents next. Teams use it to rotate chores, choose a winner or assign a task.
Paste your names, one per line, choose how many to pick, and press the button. With Do not pick the same name twice on, every name is chosen once before anyone repeats, which keeps turns fair.
How to use it
- Type or paste your names into the box, one per line.
- Choose how many names to pick each time.
- Leave Do not pick the same name twice ticked to go through the whole list, then press Pick.
How is the pick made?
The tool draws numbers from your browser’s secure random number generator and uses them to pick distinct names. Each name has probability k ÷ n of being chosen, where k is how many you pick and n is the list length.
Picking without repeats
When repeats are off, picked names leave the pool. After n ÷ k rounds the pool is empty, and every name has been chosen exactly once. Press Start over to refill it.
Privacy
Your list is processed in your browser. Nothing is sent to our servers.
Sources
Quick check: test yourself
A list has 20 names and you pick 1. What is the chance for one named person?
Correct answer: 1 in 20. Each name is equally likely: 1 out of 20.
Why turn on “do not pick the same name twice”?
Correct answer: So everyone gets a turn before anyone repeats. Removing picked names guarantees each person is chosen once per round.
You pick 3 names from 12 with no repeats. How many names stay in the pool?
Correct answer: 9. 12 − 3 = 9.
Pick an answer for each question.
Common questions
Is the name picker fair?
Yes. Every name in the pool has the same chance, using the browser’s secure random generator.
Can I pick several names at once?
Yes. Set how many names to pick each time, up to 50. They are all different.
How do I make sure everyone gets a turn?
Keep Do not pick the same name twice ticked. Picked names leave the pool until you press Start over.
How many names can I add?
Up to 500, one per line.
Is my list saved anywhere?
No. It stays in your browser and is never uploaded.
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