Random sampling with or without replacement
The op uses `Math.random` to pick items from the list. With Pick = 1 (default), one random item is returned. Set Pick > 1 to sample multiple items - the tool uses Fisher-Yates shuffle then takes the first N, so without replacement the same item never appears twice in a run.
Toggle Allow repeats on for sampling WITH replacement - each pick is independent, so the same item can appear multiple times in the output. Useful for simulating dice rolls, stress-testing with repeated samples, or generating test data where duplicates are fine.
Unseeded `Math.random` means each click produces a different sample. Fine for raffles and decision-making but not cryptographically secure. For reproducible sampling, copy the output before re-running.
How to use pick a random item from a list
- 1Enter your list in the input panel
- 2Adjust the 'Pick' setting to choose how many items to select
- 3Toggle 'Allow repeats' if you want duplicates in selections
- 4Watch the output panel update with your random item
- 5Hit Download to save the result as a plain text file
Keyboard shortcuts
Drive ListShift without touching the mouse.
What Pick a Random Item lets you do
Explore various scenarios where this tool shines.
Select a single random winner
Use this tool to pick a winner from a list of participants. Enter the names, and one will be selected at random, ensuring fairness in selections.
Randomize task assignments
In team settings, randomly assign tasks to team members. Input tasks, and the tool will choose one randomly, aiding in unbiased task distribution.
Choose a random meal option
Struggling with meal choices? List your options, and let the tool decide for you by picking one randomly, simplifying decision-making.
Select random survey responses
For qualitative analysis, randomly pick survey responses to focus on. This tool helps in selecting responses without bias.
Randomly select test data
Developers can use this tool to pick random entries from test datasets, ensuring diverse test coverage without manual selection.
Worked example
Example of selecting a random fruit from a list.
Apple Banana Cherry Date Elderberry
Cherry
Settings reference
Understand how each option affects the output with the provided example.
| Setting | What it does | Effect on the sample |
|---|---|---|
| Pick: 1 | Selects one random item | Returns 'Cherry' |
| Allow repeats: off | Ensures no duplicates in selection | No change in single-item selection |
| Allow repeats: on | Allows duplicates if picking multiple items | No change since only one item is picked |