Best way to pick a random number 1 to 23 for our trivia night?

triviarandom numbergroup gameselection

Registration:
31.07.2021
Messages: 1160

Marty_M Topic author

13.02.2025 15:40

We are hosting a big group trivia night next week, and we need a fair way to select the first team to answer a bonus question. We've narrowed it down to 23 teams, and we want to use a random number generator to pick the winner. I've seen suggestions ranging from using online dice rollers to physical spinners, but I'm worried about bias or complexity. Does anyone have experience with this? I'm looking for something simple, quick, and genuinely random that all 23 teams will trust. Any advice on the most reliable method would be greatly appreciated!

19 Answers

29.04.2024
Posts: 187

Cole_C

26.03.2025 12:39

Use a dedicated online random number generator. They are usually seeded by system time, making them quite reliable for casual use.

08.09.2022
Posts: 909

ToxicByte

25.04.2025 05:08

I highly recommend drawing names from a hat. It's the most visible and least controversial method. Just write 'Team 1' through 'Team 23' on slips of paper. It adds a nice theatrical element, too.

18.09.2024
Posts: 981

CSGO_Pro

30.04.2025 20:34

A simple digital dice roller won't cut it for 23. You need something that handles a range up to 23. Try a spreadsheet function like `=RANDBETWEEN(1, 23)` and let the screen refresh a few times to pick the number.

05.02.2025
Posts: 188

Teacher_C

25.05.2025 13:24

Physical drawing is best. It's transparent and everyone trusts it. Don't rely on software for something this important.

13.11.2024
Posts: 581

Jude_C

01.06.2025 16:17

What about using a physical spinner? You can buy large ones at party stores. Just make sure the segments are clearly marked 1-23 and that the spinner mechanism isn't weighted.

05.04.2024
Posts: 536

RetroGamer

26.06.2025 20:04

I think drawing names is the gold standard. It's foolproof and eliminates any suspicion of bias. Just make sure the slips are uniform in size and weight.

15.12.2024
Posts: 1188

Dogmeat_P in response

06.07.2025 20:01

Are you worried about bias because of the online generator? I used one last month and it was perfectly fine for our group. Just use a reputable site, like one associated with a major tech company.

31.05.2022
Posts: 266

Frost_R in response

30.07.2025 13:11

If you use a spreadsheet, make sure you generate the number, then immediately lock the cell value. Don't just leave it open to refresh, or you'll get a different number every time!

19.08.2024
Posts: 717

Settlement_Need

13.08.2025 14:47

A simple physical method is always superior. Use 23 numbered balls in a bag. Shake it up and pull one out. It's quick, dramatic, and totally fair.

07.04.2022
Posts: 261

UnrealGod in response

27.09.2025 17:51

I agree with the ball suggestion. It's visually appealing and very quick. You can even use colored balls if you want to assign a theme to the teams.

06.08.2023
Posts: 1285

Mother_C

27.10.2025 00:32

Don't use dice. You'd need 23 dice, and the chance of rolling exactly a 17 is incredibly low, making the process too complicated and slow for a trivia night.

15.03.2024
Posts: 1208

VoidWalker in response

30.10.2025 05:34

The online generator is fine, but make sure the generator itself is using a true random source, not a pseudo-random algorithm based on a predictable seed. Check the site's privacy policy if you are concerned.

24.10.2022
Posts: 1396

PhantomQueen

11.11.2025 04:01

If you are really worried about fairness, consider having a neutral third party, like a friend who isn't playing, run the selection process. They can be the 'randomizer' and it adds credibility.

09.07.2024
Posts: 121

ApexLegend

29.11.2025 05:19

I used a physical numbered jar and it was perfect. It took less than 30 seconds and nobody questioned the result. It's the perfect balance of simple and trustworthy.

08.09.2022
Posts: 453

Angel_C

21.12.2025 09:45

If you use the drawing method, have two people draw the names, and have a third person verify the number drawn. This adds layers of accountability and makes it seem even more random.

16.09.2024
Posts: 1124

DataMiner in response

02.02.2026 23:01

Could you elaborate on why you feel the online generators might be biased? Most reputable ones use cryptographic randomness, which is highly secure and suitable for this kind of casual selection.

18.11.2025
Posts: 1057

Legend_C

18.03.2026 14:33

Keep it simple. A hat and slips of paper. Nothing complicated. It's the most reliable method for a fun, high-stakes trivia night.

26.10.2024
Posts: 608

Legend_C

07.04.2026 09:25

I think the physical jar of numbered balls is the best compromise. It's quick, easy to set up, and the visual element helps everyone feel comfortable with the randomness.

05.04.2025
Posts: 228

Grandpa_C

10.04.2026 16:36

Another idea: Use a random number generator app on a tablet, but have the tablet screen visible to everyone. The transparency is key to building trust among the 23 teams.

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