In this post, we’ll explain how to use some of the most popular free AI chatbots as a Secret Santa generator. We’ll focus on how to draw the names for your gift exchange with ChatGPT, Copilot, and Gemini, using a method that works for all of them.
However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind. It’s not as straightforward as it may seem.
Pros and Cons of Secret Santa with AI
One significant drawback of using artificial intelligence for your Secret Santa is that one person will inevitably know all the results. Unlike websites that draw names anonymously, this method requires a volunteer to write the prompt, check the pairings, and communicate the results.
As such, the element of complete surprise is somewhat diminished. However, you might be able to retain some surprise if the person in charge can discreetly tell others who they need to buy a gift for.
On the positive side, using this method ensures privacy. When you organize Secret Santa using an AI chatbot, you won’t need to share your information with websites that may misuse it. While not all Secret Santa online generators will sell your data, there’s always a risk with untrusted platforms.
Naturally, the draw organizer will need access to some basic information to communicate the results. Participants can provide a phone number or email address so the organizer can inform everyone about whom they’re gifting.
Secret Santa with ChatGPT, Copilot, and Gemini
To organize a Secret Santa draw using artificial intelligence, you’ll need to create a detailed prompt that specifies all necessary information. First, you should include the names of the participants in your prompt.
Although it’s optional, after listing the names, you should also mention any exceptions that should apply to the draw. For example, if couples are participating, you can tell the AI chatbot to avoid matching them with each other.
Here’s the prompt I used:
I want to organize a Secret Santa raffle. These are the participants: James, Mary, John, Patricia, Robert, and Linda. James can’t draw Mary, and Mary can’t draw James. Additionally, Patricia and Robert can’t gift each other. With these exceptions in mind, please organize the Secret Santa draw.
As you can see in the prompt, I first listed the names and then provided the exceptions. The instructions regarding not giving gifts to each other are presented in two different ways, both of which work effectively. You can customize the names and exceptions according to your specific needs.
This prompt is suitable for any AI tool. Simply mentioning that it’s a Secret Santa draw will help the AI model understand how to proceed using the names provided. It’ll also recognize any exceptions you specify.
Image | Ben White
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