How To Set a Timer for Quizzes and Forms in Microsoft Forms
Adding a timer to your quizzes or forms creates urgency, simulates exam conditions, or simply keeps things efficient. It’s a simple and effective way to test people and gather information you can use at a later date.
Microsoft Forms is a useful form-building solution that can help you create quizzes with a timer. However, this feature may leave you looking for workarounds or better alternatives.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to add a timer to Microsoft Forms and introduce 123FormBuilder, a powerful platform that includes built-in timer functionality for quizzes and forms.
Adding a Timer to Microsoft Forms
There are multiple ways to add a timer to Microsoft Forms, including a built-in one. Let’s go over it first and then show you how to time formfilling with add-ons.
Option 1: Use Set Time Duration
Setting a timer for quizzes and forms in Microsoft Forms is really simple. All you have to do is follow these easy steps:
Go to your Microsoft Forms account. Then, pick your form or quiz.
Click Settings, then go to Options for Responses and tick the Set time duration box.
Add the duration you want to use in the box, and you’re done. Keep in mind that the responder can fill out the form during the set time, and they cannot edit their responses after the timer ends. The form will be submitted automatically when the timer is up.
Additionally, you can set up a start and end date for data collection purposes. That may simplify your data collection efforts.
Once you set the timer, respondents will see the timer bar showing the amount of time remaining for completing the form. They can’t pause the timer after it starts.
Option 2: Use an Online Timer Tool
You can also set up an online timer tool if you want, although you don’t necessarily need to do that.
- Design your form in Microsoft Forms, adding all the questions and required details.
- Find an online timer (like online-stopwatch.com) or set a timer on a device. Decide on the time limit for your form.
- When you share the form link, include a message specifying the time limit. Participants can use the suggested timer to keep track.
- Instruct participants to submit their forms before the time expires.
Option 3: Use a Meeting or Presentation to Time the Quiz
Host a live quiz session. Share the quiz link during an online meeting (via Teams, Zoom, or another platform).
Use a shared screen to display a countdown timer, ensuring all participants see the time remaining.
Track submissions as participants complete the quiz.
While these options work, they lack automation and require manual oversight, which can lead to errors or confusion.
123FormBuilder: A Better Way to Add Timers
If you’re looking for a more efficient solution, 123FormBuilder is an excellent alternative. It offers built-in timer settings that automate the entire process, from starting the quiz to submitting responses when the timer runs out.
Here’s why 123FormBuilder excels:
Add countdown or time-limit settings directly to your forms.
Forms automatically close when time runs out, ensuring fairness and accuracy.
Adjust the timer for each form or quiz to suit your needs.
No technical skills are needed—set up and manage timers in minutes.
How to Add a Timer in 123FormBuilder
Setting a timer in 123FormBuilder is really easy. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Create your form or quiz. Log into your 123FormBuilder account and start a new form. Use the drag-and-drop editor to add questions, instructions, and design elements.
Step 2: Enable the timer. Go to the Set up section and choose Advanced. Once you’re there, go to the Quiz section and tick the Show countdown timer option.
Step 3: Add the time period required to complete the form. You can choose between seconds, minutes, and hours. Add the corresponding number in the box and press the Save button.
Step 4: Test the timer. Preview the form to ensure the timer works as intended. Check how it appears for participants and make adjustments if needed.
Step 5: Distribute the form link via email, social media, or an embedded link on your website. The timer will automatically run when participants start.
Step 6: Review responses at your convenience. Once the quiz closes, responses will be stored securely in your 123FormBuilder account, ready for analysis.
Final Thoughts
While Microsoft Forms can work depending on your needs, switching to a tool like 123FormBuilder saves time and provides a straightforward experience. Built-in timers make your quizzes professional, fair, and hassle-free.
Ready to streamline your quizzes? Try 123FormBuilder today and take the guesswork out of timing!
