Creating a random Haiku Generator

[chrbson]

So I am new to programming in general and I'm taking a class that requires it. For a project I am wanting to create a random Haiku generator using two or three buttons. I want the first button to give a random 5 syllable phrase, the second button to generate a random 7 syllable phrase, and the third for the last 5 syllable phrase. These phrases will be pre-written so I don't need each word to be random. The Haiku will just need to appear on the serial monitor and I may want a fourth button to clear the screen.

If I could work it out so one button press does the entire Haiku then that could work great too but it's not necessary. I don't need the whole code written out for me, but I would greatly appreciate it if someone could get me on the right track (especially for the random generation part).

[UKHeliBob]

Start by looking at the random() and randomSeed() functions

How many different phrases of each kind are required ?

What do you know about arrays (HINT) ?

I assume that you know how to read and test the state of an input, or do you ?

What have you tried so far ?

[chrbson]

To start I think about 10 of each phrase would work.

I haven't really tried anything yet but I know the basic function to get a phrase with the button push. My main issue is randomizing the phrases.

Also I am not sure I understand the 4th question but I know how to test the program and find the errors if thats what you mean.

(Again sorry for seeming stupid but I am new to this and my brain is having issues understanding some of the code)

[UKHeliBob]

My main issue is randomizing the phrases.

As I said

Start by looking at the random() and randomSeed() functions

As to the 4th question, do you mean ?

I assume that you know how to read and test the state of an input, or do you ?

If so, then no, it has nothing to do with program errors and everything to do with determining that a button has been pressed and taking action as a result

For instance, do you know how to determine that a button has become pressed rather than when it is pressed ?

[anon57585045]

Generate a seed
Use it to look up a row
That is what you need

[chrbson]

Could you possibly show me an example of this? I don't know how to have it look up a row.

[UKHeliBob]

const char * phrases[] = {"Hello World", "Goodnight Vienna", "Merry Christmas"};
const byte phraseCount = sizeof(phrases) / sizeof(phrases[0]);

void setup()
{
  Serial.begin(115200);
  while (!Serial);
  randomSeed(analogRead(0));
}

void loop()
{
  byte chosenPhrase = random(phraseCount);
  Serial.println(phrases[chosenPhrase]);
  delay(1000);
}