Overview

Drawing straws is a time-honored method to fairly choose one person from a group for a task, role, or decision. This quick, impartial game relies on chance, making it ideal for settling debates or assigning duties without bias. Whether picking who goes first in a game or tackles a chore, drawing straws ensures everyone has an equal shot.

The “straws” in straw-picking traditionally refer to dried grass stems, not drinking straws, though modern drinking straws work just as well for this random decision-making game. Either type gets the job done!

How To Play

Here’s how to play:

• Gather Participants—You’ll need at least two people.
• Prepare Straws—Take straws, sticks, or similar items (one per person). One straw should be noticeably shorter than the others.
• Hide the Straws—Hold the straws in a fist so the lengths are concealed, with only the tops visible.
• Draw Straws—Each person picks one straw in turn. The person who draws the shortest straw is selected. If a non-participating third party is not available to hold the straws, the person holding the straws should draw last.

Multimedia

Here’s some straw drawing video for your viewing pleasure:

Equipment

You’ll need:

• Straws, sticks, or similar items (one per participant, with one distinctly shorter).

Tips

Here are tips for playing the game:

• Ensure Fairness—Double-check that the straws’ lengths are hidden before anyone draws.
• Use Alternatives—If straws aren’t available, try matchsticks, paper slips, or even blades of grass.
• Keep It Quick—Collect straws beforehand to avoid delaying the draw.

History

Drawing straws dates back centuries and is often used in situations requiring impartial decisions, like dividing tasks among sailors or settlers. Its simplicity made it a universal tool for fairness, with references in literature and folklore, such as deciding fates in dire circumstances. While its origins are unclear, the method’s enduring use highlights its effectiveness in resolving disputes equitably.

Variations And Related Games

Check out these variations and related games:

• Longest Straw Wins—The longest straw determines the chosen person instead of the shortest straw.
• Paper Slip Draw—Write one unique mark (e.g., an “X”) on a slip of paper, fold all slips, and have players draw; the marked slip selects the person.
• Rock-Paper- Scissors Tournament—Players compete in pairs for a more interactive alternative, with winners advancing until one person remains.

Learning

Drawing straws fosters growth in the Social-Emotional Domain by encouraging fairness and acceptance of random outcomes, helping participants manage disappointment or excitement gracefully. In the Cognitive Domain, it sharpens understanding of probability and decision-making as players grasp the role of chance. These skills build emotional resilience and analytical thinking in a simple, engaging way.

Drawing Straws Wrap-Up

Drawing straws is a quick, fair, and fun way to make decisions without favoritism. Its ease and versatility make it perfect for groups of any size, from casual games to serious choices. Next time you need to pick someone, grab some straws and let chance do the talking!

Have a game or game variation I should add to the catalog, or a fun story from your own playtime? Scroll to the bottom of this page and drop it in the comments or contact me—I’d love to hear from you and keep growing this collection. If you like the post, share it; that’s always appreciated!

Credits

Big thanks to these sources for the details:

• Wikipedia: Drawing Lots for rules and historical context of drawing straws.
• Dictionary.com for insights on the phrase “draw the short straw” and its 19th-century origins.

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