What is the optimal number of words for a bingo game with 50 players?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the optimal number of words for a bingo game designed for 50 players, specifically focusing on a fill-in-the-squares format using a 5x5 grid with a free space. Participants explore how to balance variation in word selection with the time taken to complete the game.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests using a list of 45 wedding-related words from which guests can choose 24 to fill in the bingo grid, expressing concern about the time it may take for someone to achieve bingo.
  • Another participant questions the format of the game, seeking clarification on how the word-based bingo operates.
  • A suggestion from a professor of statistics proposes using all available words, recommending a method of random selection from slips of paper to create variation in the words listed on each bingo card.
  • There is an emphasis on wanting a good variation of words while also ensuring the game does not take too long to complete.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the optimal number of words to use, with no consensus reached on a specific number. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to balance word variation and game duration.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not specified the exact criteria for what constitutes a "good variation" of words, nor have they established a clear method for determining the optimal number of words based on player engagement and game length.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals planning similar bingo games, event organizers, or those interested in game design may find this discussion relevant.

lenell
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Hi,
We are making a fill-in the squares bingo game. It is a 5x5 grid with a free space. If 50 people attend the function, how many words should be available for them to fill in the 24 empty squares? We want a good variation, but do not want to be there all night. I would appreciate any ideas you have. Thank you
 
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lenell said:
Hi,
We are making a fill-in the squares bingo game. It is a 5x5 grid with a free space. If 50 people attend the function, how many words should be available for them to fill in the 24 empty squares? We want a good variation, but do not want to be there all night. I would appreciate any ideas you have. Thank you
Words? I don't think I'm familiar with this form of bingo. How does it go?
 
Instead of numbers, I will list 45 words related to a wedding (this is for a shower) at the bottom of the bingo grid paper. The guests will write 24 words they choose from this list of 45 into the empty bingo grid. We will probably have 5-8 gifts to give away using this game. I just don't want it to take a long time for someone to bingo. With 50 guests, I am not sure how many words to list.
 
A professor of statistics said to use all the words. He said to put the words on slips of paper and pull them out of a hat for randomness. Then list these 24 words on the botton of 1 of the 50 papers of the grid I will copy; the guest then chooses from this list of 24 and fills in the gird. Repeat this process for each of the 50 papers needed. This seems to be the easiest solution.
 

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