A Scattergories list generator picks a random letter and generates a fresh set of 12 categories so you can play Scattergories without the physical game. Generate a new list in seconds, race the built-in timer, and track scores — all in your browser.
Categories — Letter: A
Score Tracking
Round History
Custom Categories
Add your own categories to mix into the generated lists. Saved across sessions.
How to Use the Scattergories List Generator
Scattergories is a fast-paced word game where players race to fill a list of categories with answers that all start with the same random letter. This Scattergories list generator replaces the physical card deck and die so you can play anywhere, any time.
Step 1: Generate a New List
Click "Generate List" to pick a random letter and display 12 fresh categories. The generator draws from 20+ pre-built themed category sets and shuffles them for variety. You'll never get the same combination twice in a row.
Step 2: Start the Timer
Select 1, 2, or 3 minutes from the Timer Duration dropdown — 2 minutes is the standard. Hit "Start Timer" and begin writing answers. The progress bar shifts from green to yellow to red as time runs low. An optional alarm sound fires when time expires.
Step 3: Fill In Your Answers
Each player writes one answer per category that starts with the round letter. For example, if the letter is M and the category is "Things in a grocery store," a valid answer is "Mushrooms." Abstract categories like "Reasons to be late" allow creative answers — "Monster traffic" would score.
Step 4: Score the Round
When time is up, players read their answers aloud. Duplicate answers (written by more than one player) score zero. Unique answers score one point each. Proper nouns generally score as long as they are not questioned. Add each player's score using the Score Tracking section.
Changing Letters vs. Changing Lists
Use "New Letter" to pick a different letter while keeping the same 12 categories — useful if players want a harder or easier starting letter. Use "New List" to get an entirely different set of categories with a new letter. After 5-10 rounds the category variety keeps gameplay fresh.
Printing for Group Play
Click "Print List" to open a clean printer-friendly version showing just the letter and 12 categories. Print one sheet per player so everyone has their own paper to fill in. This works great for classroom activities and party games.
FAQ
Is this Scattergories list generator free?
Yes, completely free with no signup required. All lists are generated locally in your browser — nothing is sent to a server.
How does Scattergories work?
A random letter is chosen and a list of 12 categories is shown. Players race to fill in one answer for each category that starts with the chosen letter before the timer runs out. Unique answers that nobody else wrote score a point. Duplicate answers score zero.
Which letters are excluded by default?
Q, X, and Z are excluded by default because they are very difficult for most category answers. You can toggle them on if you want an extra challenge.
Can I use my own categories?
Yes. Use the Custom Categories section to replace any of the 12 list slots with your own categories. Your custom categories are saved to localStorage and persist between sessions.
How long should the timer be for Scattergories?
The standard Scattergories timer is 2-3 minutes. This generator offers 1, 2, and 3 minute options. For a quick round or younger players, 2 minutes is recommended.
Can I print the Scattergories list?
Yes. Click the Print List button to open a print-friendly version showing the letter and all 12 categories. Each player can fill in their own printed sheet.
How many category lists are available?
The generator has 20+ themed category lists with 12 categories each. Clicking 'New List' reshuffles to a completely different set of categories. 'New Letter' changes just the letter while keeping the same categories.