Is the selection truly random?

Yes. The tool uses the browser's built-in random number generator (Math.random) to select a student. Each student has an equal probability of being picked.

Can the same student be picked twice?

Yes — by default, the tool picks with replacement, so every student has the same chance each time. Check the pick history to see who has already been called on.

How are groups balanced?

The tool shuffles all names randomly and then distributes them round-robin across the specified number of groups. This ensures groups differ by at most one member.

Are my students' names stored anywhere?

Names are only stored in your browser's local storage — nothing is sent to any server. Clear your browser data to remove them.

Random Student Picker

Pick a random student from your class list or split students into balanced groups. Free, no sign-up.

Student names

Press Enter to add. Paste comma-separated or one-per-line lists.

Add students and press Pick!

Your class lists are already in GapFiller

Manage class lists, attendance, and activities in one place.

Why use a random student picker?

Cold-calling — asking a randomly selected student to answer — is one of the most effective techniques for keeping every student engaged. Research shows that when students know they might be called on at any moment, attention and participation both increase significantly.

This free tool removes bias from the selection process. Type or paste your class roster, hit the Pick button, and the animated spinner selects a student at random. Switch to Groups mode to split the class into balanced teams for group work, debates, or lab assignments.

Quick example

Paste 25 student names into the input field. In Pick mode, press the button and the spinner cycles through names before landing on one. In Groups mode, set the number to 5 and the tool creates five groups of five students each, evenly distributed.

Names are saved in your browser so the list is ready next time you open the page.

Frequently asked questions

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