How to Create a Matching Question in Google Forms

Matching questions are a practical way to test knowledge, reinforce learning, or assess understanding. But if you’ve tried to create one in Google Forms, you might’ve realized it’s not as straightforward as you’d hoped. 

In this post, we’ll explain matching questions, where to use them, how to create them in Google Forms, and why tools like 123FormBuilder make the process much easier. 

What Are Matching Questions? 

Matching questions ask users to pair related items from two lists. For example, you might be asked to match countries with their capitals, vocabulary words with definitions, or products with their features. 

Where Matching Questions Work Best 

Below are a few examples of where to use matching questions: 

• Quizzes and tests (especially in schools or training programs) 

• Language learning (match words with meanings or translations) 

• Corporate training assessments (match scenarios with best practices) 

• Surveys and onboarding (to make information retention more interactive) 

In short, matching questions work wherever the goal is understanding, identity, or categorization. 

How to Create a Matching Question in Google Forms 

Here’s the truth: Google Forms does not currently offer a native “matching” question type. But don’t worry — there are a couple of creative workarounds you can try: 

Use the Multiple-Choice Grid 

Multiple-Choice Grid is the closest you’ll get to a matching format. Here’s how: 

• Start a new quiz. 

• Add the quiz title and the first pair of questions. 

• Click on the dropdown to the right of the field and choose Multiple-Choice Grid from the list. 

• In the Rows, list the items to be matched (e.g., country name). 

• In the Columns, list possible matches (e.g., capitals). 

• For each question, click on the Answer key link at the bottom left of the question box.
• Then, click the three vertical dots for “More options.” You can choose to limit each column to a single response. 

• Go to Settings, select Make this a quiz, and choose the desired settings, such as Missed questions, Point values, and more. 

• Go to Preview and test your Quiz.  

• As you can see, matching questions are not displayed exactly as expected in the preview area, which can be confusing for people completing the quiz. 

A Smarter Way To Create Matching Questions

If you want to create matching questions quickly, with more flexibility and better design, 123FormBuilder is a much better choice. 

Here’s why: 

• ✅ Countdown timer

• 🎨 Highly customizable layout and styling 

• 🔁 Randomize answers

• 📊 Built-in analytics and reports 

• 📱 Mobile-responsive and user-friendly 

It’s built for educators, HR teams, trainers, marketers, and anyone who needs smarter forms. 

How to Create a Matching Question in 123FormBuilder 

It’s as easy as drag, drop, and done: 

1. Log in to your 123FormBuilder account (or create one for free). 

2. Choose a pre-made quiz or create a new one from scratch. 

3. Add a Single Choice for the question types. Add as many fields of this type as you need, depending on the questions in your quiz. 

4. Then, add the questions and answers for each of them. To be more specific, enter your pairs. 

5. For this example, we will match countries with their capitals. 

6. Click in the single choice field, then click on the tire icon to open the settings. 

7. Scroll down to the Quiz settings and open it. 

8. Here you can set the correct answer and award points based on the answer. 

9. You also have the option to arrange the answers randomly by checking this toggle. 

10. Customize the look and feel with themes, fonts, or branding. 
11. Click to Set up and choose Advanced from the dropdown list. Next, click on the Quiz tab and select a Countdown timer for your quiz, or other answer options, depending on your needs.

11. Now, let’s test the Quiz. The countdown timer starts at the top right corner of the form.

12. Publish and share your form — on your site, via email, or anywhere! 

In just a few minutes, you’ve got a polished, interactive form that does exactly what you need — no workarounds required. 

Ready to Build Better Matching Questions? 

Google Forms is a solid tool for basic surveys, but when you need more flexibility, better design, and smarter quizzes, 123FormBuilder has your back. 

👉 Try 123FormBuilder for free today and start creating engaging, interactive forms in minutes. 

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