Weighted random picker
Write each item on its own line as name: weight, such as how many tickets each person holds in a draw. An item without a weight counts as 1.
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Processing and privacy: The result is calculated inside your browser and your data is not sent to any server.
How to use it
- Enter items (name: weight) and draw number.
- The result appears straight away and updates as you edit.
- Copy the result, or copy a link that keeps the same values to share it.
How it is calculated
Chance of item i = its weight / total weight. A uniform number r from 0 to the total is drawn, and the first item whose running total exceeds r is chosen.
Example
Inputs: Draw number = 1. Result: Picked: Noura; Items: 4; Total weight: 10.
Limits and caveats
- The weight is the number after the colon or = sign, so avoid colons inside a name.
- An item with weight zero can never be picked.
Questions about this tool
When do I need a weighted pick?
When chances should not be equal, such as a raffle where each person holds a different number of tickets or purchases.
Can I use decimal weights?
Yes, such as 0.5 or 2.25. The chance is still the weight divided by the total.
What does weight 4 against weight 1 mean?
The item with weight 4 is four times as likely as the one with weight 1, but it is not guaranteed to win.