Okay, so you want to get a really quick overview of the draw.
Basically, it works like this:

1. You pick a tier (1 is best, 3 is worst).
2. You put together a draw group
3. You rank and submit your choices for housing
4. You wait for the results.

Sounds easy enough, right?  For the most part, yes.
For a more comprehensive overview, check out the full explanation of the draw.

Ranking Your Residences

As a freshman, it is important to keep in mind that the in-house draws are done by seniority first, then by draw number.  In other words, if you get into a 4-class or 3-class dormitory, it is very likely that you will get the worst rooms in the residence after the incoming freshmen.  So you should probably look up the various residences and see how many of each type of room there are.  For example, if residence A has sixty singles and ten one-room doubles, you are probably going to end up in the doubles, since rising freshmen get the lowest priority in the draw.

Some Recommendations

• Toyon: One of the most popular choices for sophomores is Toyon.  It is an all-sophomore residence located on East Campus, so you do not have the issue of competing for rooms by seniority.  In fact it is by draw number only, so you have a much better chance at getting a nice room.

• Roble: Another popular choice is Roble.  Located very close to Tressider Union, as well as Lagunita Late Night, it is perfect for late night snackers.  It is four-class, and has over 100 singles!  Although there are a few one room doubles, most of the rooms in Roble for upperclassmen are very nice.  Its ideal location and proximity to food is a big hit for many students.  Unfortunately, in the draw for the 2009-2010 school year, the competition was so fierce that no sophomores were able to get in.

• Lagunita Court: The draw number cutoffs for the residences in Lagunita Court are not too bad, ranging from 900 to 1500, so it is definitely in reach for sophomores.  Just like Roble, you are very close to Lagunita Late Night.  In addition, Lagunita Dining, also known as Roble Dining, is one of the better dining halls on campus.