How to use the random number generator
Everything happens on one screen. Set a range, choose how many numbers you want and tap. Here is what each control does.
- "From" and "To" set the range. Any whole numbers from -1,000,000 to 1,000,000 work, negative numbers included.
- The quick ranges fill in 1 to 10, 1 to 100 or 1 to 6 with one tap. Use 1 to 6 when the dice have gone missing.
- "How many" gives you anywhere from 1 to 100 numbers at once.
- "No repeats" makes every number in the batch different. Leave it off and the same number can come up twice, like rolling dice twice.
- "Sort" puts the results in order, which makes a long list easier to read out or check.
- "Generate" draws a fresh set. "Copy" puts the numbers on your clipboard, ready to paste into a message, a document or a spreadsheet.
Is it really random?
Yes. The numbers come from the secure random generator built into your browser, the kind of randomness browsers use for security. Every number in your range has the same chance on every tap. There's no pattern to learn and no favorite number.
That also means streaks happen. With a range of 1 to 10, the same number comes up twice in a row about one time in ten. That isn't a bug, it's what real chance looks like. If a repeat would feel unfair, for example when calling on students, turn on "No repeats" or use "Raffle mode".
Nothing you type is sent to a server. There's no sign-up and no app to install.
Raffle mode: draw tickets one at a time
"Raffle mode" works like a bowl of tickets. Each tap draws one number from your range, and that number can't come up again. The numbers already drawn stay listed on screen, so nobody has to remember whether 17 was called.
- 1Hand out numbered tickets, or write a number next to each name on the sign-in sheet.
- 2Set "From" and "To" to match the tickets, for example 1 to 60.
- 3Switch on "Raffle mode" and draw one number per prize. Read it out and wait for the winner to come up before you draw again.
- 4If a number belongs to someone who already left, simply draw the next one.
- 5When the raffle is over, tap "Start over" to clear the list for next time.
It works for door prizes at a party, a classroom raffle for small prizes, or calling students up one at a time without anyone getting picked twice.
Ways to use a random number picker
Raffles and door prizes
Number the tickets, draw in "Raffle mode" and keep the list of winning numbers on screen for anyone who missed a call.
Classroom turns
Give each student their roster number. Draw who reads next, who presents first or who answers the next question, with no repeats.
Game night
Pick which question card to read, roll 1 to 6 without dice, or have everyone guess a number from 1 to 10. Closest guess goes first.
Giveaways and contests
Number the entries in the order they came in, then draw. Set "How many" to 3 with "No repeats" on to pick three winners at once.
At home
Who picks the movie, who sets the table, which chore comes first. Write the options as a numbered list and let the number decide.
Seats and order
Turn on "No repeats" and set "How many" to the size of the group to get a random order for seats, turns or presentations.
Number games to play with it
A random number is the start of a lot of simple games. These need nothing but the phone and maybe a pen.
Higher or lower
One player generates a number from 1 to 100 and keeps the screen hidden. The others take turns guessing, and the player only says higher or lower. House rule: seven guesses to find it, or the number holder wins the round.
Closest without going over
Everyone writes a guess from 1 to 100 on paper. Then generate one number. The closest guess that isn't over it wins. Two winners? Both score.
Target number
Generate four numbers from 1 to 10 and one target from 1 to 100. Players add, subtract, multiply or divide the four to get as close to the target as they can. Give them two minutes on the countdown timer.
Line up
Give everyone a secret number from 1 to 100 on a slip of paper. Without saying their number, players describe it with a clue, like "a slow animal", and the group lines up from low to high. Our In Order game is built on the same idea and deals the numbers for you.
Tips for hosts and teachers
- Show the screen when you draw. When everyone sees the number come up, nobody wonders if you picked a favorite.
- Settle the rules before the first draw: how many prizes, whether a winner can win again, and what happens if a winner isn't in the room.
- With several prizes, draw for the smallest one first and the best one last. People stay to the end.
- Keep ticket stubs or a numbered list next to the names, so you can check a winner in seconds.
- In class, keep "Raffle mode" open through the lesson so every student gets a turn before anyone goes twice.
Games and tools that go with it
A random number often leads to something else. These pair well with it:
- Dice Roller: roll up to 10 dice, hold the ones you want to keep and see the total.
- Spin the Wheel: when your choices are words, not numbers.
- Dice Gift Game: roll a six to grab a gift, then steal one before the secret timer rings.
- Hot Potato: answer and pass the phone before the hidden timer goes off.
Questions
Is this random number generator really random?
Yes. It uses your browser's secure random generator, so every number in your range has the same chance on every tap.
How do I pick a number between 1 and 10?
Tap the 1 to 10 quick range, then tap "Generate". You can also type 1 in "From" and 10 in "To".
Can I get several numbers with no repeats?
Yes. Set "How many" anywhere from 1 to 100 and turn on "No repeats". Every number in the batch will be different, as long as your range has enough numbers.
How do I use it as a raffle number generator?
Set the range to match your tickets and switch on "Raffle mode". Each tap draws one new number, never the same one twice, and the numbers already drawn stay on screen.
Can it pick negative numbers or decimals?
Negative numbers, yes: any whole number from -1,000,000 to 1,000,000. Decimals, no. It only picks whole numbers.
Can I pick several winners at once?
Yes. Set "How many" to the number of winners, turn on "No repeats" and tap "Generate". Or draw them one by one in "Raffle mode" for more suspense.
Do I need to sign up or download anything?
No. It's free, runs in your browser and needs no sign-up or app. Nothing you type is sent to a server.