Getting Started with Random Name Picker
January 2, 2026 3 min read
# Getting Started with Random Name Picker
Welcome to Random Name Picker! This guide will help you get started with our free online tool for randomly selecting names.
## What is Random Name Picker?
Random Name Picker is a simple, free tool that helps you randomly select names from a list. It's perfect for:
- Classroom activities and student selection
- Giveaways and contest winners
- Team building and group assignments
- Decision making when you can't choose
- Secret Santa and gift exchanges
## How to Use
### Step 1: Add Names
You can add names in several ways:
- Type a name and press Enter
- Paste a list of names (separated by commas or new lines)
- Import from a text file
### Step 2: Configure Options
Choose whether to remove names after they're picked. This is useful for elimination-style drawings.
### Step 3: Pick a Winner
Click the "Pick Random Name" button and watch the exciting animation as names are highlighted before the winner is revealed!
### Step 4: View History
Check the pick history to see all previous winners with timestamps.
## Tips for Best Results
1. **Add enough names**: The more names, the more exciting the animation!
2. **Use "Remove after picking"**: Great for ensuring each person only wins once
3. **Export your list**: Save your names for future use
4. **Check the history**: Keep records of all your picks
## Privacy
All your names are stored locally in your browser. We never send your data to any server, so your privacy is completely protected.
Happy picking!