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Reference.org
Drawing lots (decision making)
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<p>Drawing lots or drawing straws is a selection method, or a form of <a href="/facts/Sortition/WSWzQfzj">sortition</a>, that is used by a group to choose one member of the group to perform a task after none has volunteered for it. The same practice can be used also to choose one of several volunteers, should an agreement not be reached. </p><p>The drawing of lots is sometimes used to determine which candidate is elected where the candidates have the same number of votes. In the United Kingdom, drawing lots can be used to decide on the allocation of school places where other criteria result in a tie. </p>