Round Robin Randomizer
Fairly and randomly select names from a list so that everyone gets a turn before any name is repeated.
Enter at least 3 names, one per line. Then click 'Start'.
How to Use
- 1Enter at least 3 names in the text area, one name per line. (Make sure each name is unique, for example: Jamie C. and Jamie P.)
- 2Click Start to save the list and select your first random name.
- 3Click Randomize to pick the next random name.
Other Buttons
- •Presentation Mode: Only show the currently selected name and the Randomize button.
- •Exit Presentation Mode: Show the full page including the name list and the number of turns they've had.
- •Start Over: Reset all turn history and return to the editing view so you can modify your list of names. Your names are preserved, but all selection history is cleared.
- •Reset: Delete your list of names and all turn history data.
Note: Your data is automatically saved in your browser. If you refresh the page, your list and selection history will be restored.
Methodology
This tool ensures fair name selection through a two-phase round-robin algorithm that guarantees balanced distribution.
Round-Robin Phase: The tool maintains a pool of names that haven't been selected in the current round. Each name must be selected once before any name can be selected again, ensuring everyone gets an equal opportunity.
Recent History Filter: To prevent immediate repetition, the algorithm excludes recently picked names from selection. The exclusion window is dynamically calculated based on your list size — for smaller lists (under 5 names), only the most recent selection is excluded.
Once all names have been selected in a round, the pool resets and the cycle begins again, maintaining fairness across multiple rounds of selection.
Fair's Fair
Forget tally marks and coin flips. Round Robin Randomizer makes sure everyone gets a turn before repeating a selection, no favorites here.
Clutter-Free
Round Robin Randomizer's clean interface lets you focus on what you came for — random selection, plain and simple.
Local Data
Round Robin Randomizer processes and stores all randomizations directly in your browser ensuring your information stays right where it should: only on your device.
Example Use Cases
- •Team Meetings: Fairly assign tasks or speaking slots during stand-ups.
- •Classroom Settings: Randomize student participation in a balanced manner.
- •Game Nights: Decide the order of play or who goes next in a board game.
- •Event Drawings: Select a winner for a raffle or door prize.
- •Research: Randomly select subjects for different experimental conditions.
About
This is a freely available tool to help you fairly and efficiently pick a random name from a list of names. This tool is provided as-is, and I am not liable for friendships lost, workplace rivalries initiated, or any "I can't believe I got picked last again" moments. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out.
Do you have a feature request or a request for another free tool? Let me know!
Created by Keshia Rose
Copyright © 2026 Keshia Rose. All rights reserved.
Privacy
All calculations and data are processed and stored locally in your own browser.
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