Chance, skill or both
The method named in the rules tells you what kind of promotion you are entering. In a random draw, every eligible entry has a chance and the result does not depend on talent. In a judged contest, a panel scores entries against stated criteria such as originality or accuracy. Some promotions combine both: a draw picks a finalist, and the finalist must then answer a question correctly to receive the prize.
Random draws
Rules usually give the date of the draw, who runs it and how the winner is contacted. Some organizers use an outside administrator or software that picks entries with equal weight. The rules may say the draw happens on or about a date, which allows a short delay. A draw may also select reserve winners who are contacted if the first person cannot be verified.
Instant wins
An instant win tells you at the time of entry whether you have won, by a code, a random computer result or a prize pool that releases at preset moments. Rules for instant wins explain how many prizes are in the pool and what happens to any that are not awarded, which is often a later draw among entries. Read how many entries you may make, because instant-win promotions often allow one a day.
Skill-testing questions and judging
In some countries, particularly Canada, a mathematical skill-testing question is added to a chance draw so that it is not treated as a lottery. The selected entrant must answer it correctly, usually without help, before the prize is awarded. If a promotion is judged, look for the criteria, the judges' role and whether their decision is final.
What happens after selection
Being selected is rarely the end. Rules usually require the potential winner to respond within a set time, confirm eligibility and sign a declaration. Missing the deadline can mean the prize is redrawn. Use only the contact route named in the rules, and keep an eye on the spam folder. Our guide to verifying a prize notification helps you tell a real message from a scam.