Here's how it works:
* The Sorting Ceremony: At the start of their first year, each student is placed on a stool, and the Sorting Hat is placed on their head.
* The Hat Talks: The Hat speaks to the student, examining their personality, talents, and values.
* The Hat Decides: Based on its assessment, the Hat chooses the house it believes the student will thrive in.
While the Hat is the ultimate decider, it is believed to consider the student's own desires and input. However, ultimately, the Hat's judgment is final.