Randomness and Fairness
Wheel of Names uses browser-generated random values for standard spins, then maps the value to the active entries. Equal chance applies only when entries are unique and no setting changes eligibility or weight. This page explains how to run a transparent draw and when “fair” means more than pure randomness.
Last updated: July 30, 2026
Standard Wheel of Names random selection
In standard mode, the wheel requests random bytes from the browser’s cryptographic random-number generator. The generated value is mapped to the current active-entry range. The spin animation then lands on the chosen entry. Animation is the visual presentation; the active list and selection logic determine the result.
Technical reference: MDN Web Docs on Crypto.getRandomValues().
Probability examples
| Setup | Chance for one entry | Important note |
|---|---|---|
| 6 unique active entries | 1 ÷ 6 = 16.67% | Each entry has equal chance on that spin. |
| Entry appears twice in 6 slices | 2 ÷ 6 = 33.33% | Duplicate text creates two selectable positions. |
| Weight 3 in total weight 10 | 3 ÷ 10 = 30% | Weight changes relative probability. |
| 5 entries after one elimination | 1 ÷ 5 = 20% | Removed entries are no longer eligible. |
Random sequences naturally contain streaks and repeats. Equal probability does not guarantee equal outcomes over a small number of spins.
Modes that change eligibility or probability
Weighted mode
Uses assigned weights instead of equal slices. Publish or announce the weights before a formal draw.
Elimination
Removes each selected entry and recalculates chances among those remaining.
Multiple winners
Selects the requested number of results, normally without replacing a winner during the same round.
Manual edits
Adding, removing, duplicating, or disabling entries changes the eligible population immediately.
Smart Fair Rotation is not independent randomness
Smart Fair Rotation is designed for recurring participation. It can favor entries selected fewer times and apply a temporary winner cooldown. That can improve balance across repeated classroom or team activities, but it intentionally changes each entry’s eligibility based on history. Leave Smart mode off when rules require an independent equal-chance draw.
Draw receipts and records
A cryptographic draw receipt can create a timestamped hash from the result, visible entries, page, and active modes. A hash helps show whether a saved summary changed; it does not independently prove that the original list was complete, that a participant was eligible, or that the device was uncompromised. Keep the announced rules, source list, and result together.
Transparent-draw checklist
- Publish the eligibility rule before collecting entries.
- Remove duplicates and ineligible entries using a documented method.
- Show or record the final list without exposing unnecessary personal data.
- Confirm standard, weighted, elimination, cooldown, or multiple-winner settings.
- Spin once according to the announced rule.
- Save the result, timestamp, receipt, and any required redraw reason.
- Verify the selected person or option before awarding a prize or assignment.
Fairness depends on context
Mathematical equality is only one kind of fairness. Accommodations, consent, privacy, workload, conflict-of-interest rules, and legal eligibility may justify exclusions or alternatives. Do not use a wheel as the sole basis for high-stakes decisions. Read the Disclaimer.
