How it works

1. Enter 2–32 distinct names. If protecting two seeds, put them first in the list.
2. Choose whether to protect the first two entrants, then create pairings.
3. Print or export the numbered first-round matches. Winners of adjacent matches meet in the next round.

How byes and protected seeds work

The bracket uses the next power of two. Every match has at least one entrant; a lone entrant advances by a bye. With protection on, the first two names occupy opposite halves and receive available byes first. Remaining entrants are randomized.

Your inputs stay with you

Your entries, settings and results are processed in this browser and are not sent to our server. Clearing browser data removes saved drafts and results. Export a text file if you want to keep a copy. Hosting may record standard page-request logs.

Does this track the whole tournament?

This tool creates the opening draw, with match numbers defining the bracket order. It does not track scores, later-round winners, official rankings or sport-specific seeding rules. Protection deliberately changes the otherwise random draw.