Random Picker & Spinner

Our random picker and spinner tool makes decision-making fun and fair. Enter your list of items, spin the wheel, and let chance decide! With smooth animations and customizable options, it's perfect for contests, classroom activities, team selection, and everyday decisions.

1. Enter Your Items: Type each item on a new line or separate with commas
2. Choose Options: Select whether to remove duplicates or items after picking
3. Start Spinning: Click the "Spin" button to start the wheel animation
4. Watch the Result: The wheel will spin and gradually slow down to select an item
5. View History: See your selection history and statistics
6. Export or Share: Copy results or export to CSV for record keeping

• Clear item names: Use descriptive, unambiguous names for your items
• Check for duplicates: Enable duplicate removal if you have repeated items
• Consider context: Make sure all items in your list are valid options
• Save your lists: Copy frequently used lists for future sessions
• Use fair criteria: Ensure all participants understand the selection process
• Document results: Keep records of selections for transparency

Our random picker uses JavaScript's built-in Math.random() function to ensure fair and unbiased selection. Each item has an equal probability of being selected, making it perfect for:

• Contest drawings and giveaways
• Academic research and sampling
• Fair team selection processes
• Unbiased decision making

Pro Tips

• Use the "Remove after pick" option for elimination-style selections
• Keep your item lists under 100 items for best performance
• Take screenshots of results for important selections
• Test with sample data before using with real participants
• Consider using weighted selection for more complex scenarios

True Randomness vs Pseudo-Randomness

Digital random selection uses pseudo-random number generators (PRNGs), which are algorithms that produce sequences of numbers approximating true randomness. While not perfectly random, modern PRNGs are sufficient for fair selection in non-cryptographic applications.

• JavaScript Math.random() uses the Xorshift128+ algorithm
• Generates uniform distribution across all items
• Seed-based generation ensures unpredictability
• Period length exceeds practical selection needs
• Passes statistical randomness tests for fairness

Probability and Equal Chances

In a list of N items, each item has exactly 1/N probability of being selected. This ensures mathematical fairness regardless of item position or name.

• 10 items = 10% chance each (1/10)
• 50 items = 2% chance each (1/50)
• 100 items = 1% chance each (1/100)
• Position in list does not affect probability
• Previous selections don't influence future picks (independent events)

Sampling Techniques

Different random selection methods serve different purposes in research, contests, and decision-making.

• Simple Random: Each item has equal probability (default mode)
• Without Replacement: Remove items after selection (no duplicates)
• With Replacement: Items can be selected multiple times
• Stratified: Divide into groups first, then select from each
• Weighted: Some items have higher selection probability

Avoiding Selection Bias

Proper random selection requires careful setup to avoid unconscious bias or systematic errors.

• Use neutral, consistent naming conventions
• Don't manually reorder items before selection
• Verify all eligible items are included
• Remove ineligible items before spinning
• Don't re-spin if you dislike the result (unless agreed upon beforehand)

Documentation Best Practices

For official selections, proper documentation ensures transparency and prevents disputes.

• Record timestamp of selection
• Save complete item list before spinning
• Screenshot or export results immediately
• Document any removed duplicates
• Note any exclusions or special rules
• Archive results for future reference

Handling Disputes

When random selection results are questioned, having clear procedures and documentation is essential.

• Establish rules before selection begins
• Use screen recording for high-stakes selections
• Allow witnesses to verify the process
• Define re-selection criteria upfront
• Maintain selection history logs