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The Hat - Random name picker and list randomizer for Windows



Limited-time special offer!! Get the deluxe versions of The Hat OR Cool Timer for only $5. That's 50% off the regular price! Click here to buy The Hat Deluxe or here to buy Cool Timer Deluxe.

Get even more savings by buying them both in a bundle for only $7.50! Click here to get this awesome deal now.



Current version: 3.1.2.1
License: Freeware


"I'm first!" "No I'm first!"
"No, I called it!" "Well I'm second!"
"OK then Dustin is last because he's youngest!"
"That's not fair, I'm always last!"




Sound familiar? If you are a parent of two or more children, the answer is most likely a resounding "Yes!". Never fear, help is here. Let The Hat make your kids stop fighting and love each other more!

Introducing a powerful Windows solution that offers a fun and easy way to automatically determine a random order from a list of names. You can even use it to pick individual names visually for raffle and sweepstakes winners or pick multiple names at a time to divide a large group into random smaller groups, complete with cool animation and also awesome sound effects. Download now or watch a cool demo video.

Click here for a video of The Hat in action.
(Note: Some features shown in video are only available in the deluxe version.)
Recent changes:
  • Fixed an issue that was causing an error when drawing screen was opened.
  • Key Features
  • Simple, easy-to-use interface.
  • Great for teachers or parents.
  • Enter up to 20 names in the free version or unlimited names in the Deluxe version.
  • Import names from a text file (Deluxe version) or paste from the Clipboard.
  • Save and load lists for different occasions, classes, etc. from within the program. (Deluxe version).
  • Optional special effects while shuffling names.
  • Pick individual names one at a time or any amount at a time to select random smaller groups from a large group.
  • Cool animation and sound effects when drawing names. Actually shows names being drawn from a hat (other "containers" available in the Deluxe version).
  • Fairly settle arguments between kids about "who goes first", etc.
  • Print or save results to a file for future reference.
  • Great for Parents!

    Just like pulling names from a hat to determine a random order for a group of people, The Hat generates a random order from a list of any number of names. This can prove very handy for parents or teachers who need to assign a random order in which to allow any size group of kids to do actvities or perform tasks such as play video games, use the computer, or do chores.

    Enter up to 20 names in the free version. In the Deluxe version, you can enter them manually by typing one at a time, paste them from the Clipboard, or impport them from a text file. You can also save and load lists within the program (Deluxe version). Once a list of names is entered, you can click the "Shuffle" button to rearrange them into a random order. The list is "shuffled" rapidly and repeatedly (optionally with fun animation and sound effects) until the "Stop" button is clicked. At that time the list is displayed in the new, random order and can be printed for future reference or copied to the clipboard for pasting into other applications.

    The list of names can be optionally be remembered between sessions so that the next time you open the program, the same list of names is already entered.

    Great for raffles and sweepstakes!

    The Hat also allows you to pick individual names one at a time. This is done using cool animation which actually shows the names coming out of a hat on golden tickets or, optionally (in the Deluxe version), other cool "containers" such as a beach bucket, pirate treasure chest, or a Halloween pumpkin bucket, all complete with sound effects. This is perfect for picking winners of raffles, sweepstakes, and other contests.

    Great for teachers to assign partners or split classes into random groups!

    You can also specify how many names are drawn at a time in case you need to randomly choose pairs or make random smaller groups from a large group to play games or do assignments or chores.

    Click here to download the free version or here to check out the Deluxe version for even more features and fun.


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