How to randomly split people into teams

Choose an assignment rule

For a short activity, a random split with similar group sizes is often enough. For example, 17 participants can make four teams of four and five. The generator assigns each listed entry and keeps the size difference to one person at most.

Before the draw, decide whether the participants can be grouped entirely at random. If safety, age, accessibility, experience or agreed pairs matter, the tool cannot know those constraints. Prepare eligible combinations in advance or assign specific roles separately.

Run the team draw

1. Set the number of teams and make sure there are enough participants for the format.
2. Paste one name per line. Use neutral labels if you do not want full names displayed on screen.
3. Choose the team count and start the generator. Every entry is assigned to one group; blank lines are ignored.
4. Review team sizes and announce them neutrally. If useful, give each group a moment to choose a name or role.
5. If you need a new composition, run the draw again before the activity and apply the same rule to everyone.

Even-sized teams are not the same as balanced teams

The tool balances participant count only. It does not know experience, preparation, preferences or past group assignments. It is accurate to say the teams are nearly even in size, not that their skill levels are equal or guaranteed to be balanced.

If group composition must account for several factors, define simple criteria and explain who makes the final decision. You can use a random draw for order, then manually check accessibility and agreed constraints. Avoid putting personal or sensitive details in the list without a need.

Common questions