How to Add Timer in Google Forms Quiz
Adele
•
August 27, 2025
How to Add Timer in Google Forms Quiz

Google Forms is a versatile tool for creating quizzes, surveys, and assessments. However, one limitation many users face is the inability to add a timer natively. Adding a timer to a Google Forms quiz is essential for creating timed tests, ensuring fairness, and improving productivity. In this guide, we’ll explore practical ways to add a timer to your Google Forms quiz, including using innovative tools like Formswrite .
Why Add a Timer to Your Google Forms Quiz?
Adding a timer to your Google Forms quiz can:
Encourage timely responses: Helps students or respondents manage their time effectively.
Ensure fairness: Prevents cheating by limiting the time for each participant.
Boost engagement: Makes quizzes more interactive and challenging.
Methods to Add a Timer in Google Forms Quiz
While Google Forms does not have a built-in timer feature, you can still add one using external solutions:
1. Use Third-Party Add-Ons
Several add-ons like Form Timer or Quilgo can help you integrate a timer. These tools allow you to set a countdown timer, after which the quiz automatically submits. Simply install the add-on from the Google Workspace Marketplace, configure the time limit, and attach it to your quiz.
2. Use Formswrite to Create Timed Quizzes
Formswrite is a powerful platform that simplifies the creation of Google Forms quizzes. With Formswrite, you can:
Convert Google Docs, Google Sheets, or PDFs into Google Forms with a single click.
Customize quizzes quickly without manual entry.
Easily integrate timers or time limits by using compatible features or paired tools.
Steps to use Formswrite :
Go to theFormswritewebsite.
Upload your Google Doc, Sheet, or PDF.
Convert it to a Google Form in 1 click.
Use an add-on like Form Timer to set a countdown.
This method saves time, avoids manual input errors, and allows educators or businesses to deploy quizzes efficiently.
3. Manual Workaround
For small quizzes, you can manually instruct respondents about the time limit in the form description. While this doesn’t enforce automatic submission, it can be useful for informal assessments.
Tips for Effective Timed Quizzes
Test the timer before sharing the quiz.
Communicate the time limit clearly to participants.
Keep quizzes concise to ensure all questions can be answered in the allotted time.
FAQ
Q1: Can Google Forms add a timer by default? No, Google Forms doesn’t have a built-in timer feature. You need to use third-party add-ons or platforms like Formswrite.
Q2: What is Formswrite? Formswrite is a website that converts Google Docs, Google Sheets, or PDFs into Google Forms in one click, making quiz creation faster and more efficient.
Q3: How do I set a timer using Formswrite? After converting your document into a Google Form with Formswrite, use a Google Forms add-on like Form Timer or Quilgo to set a countdown timer.
Q4: Are there free options to add a timer? Yes, some add-ons offer free plans, though they may have limitations like the number of responses or quiz duration.
Q5: Is it possible to automatically submit responses after the timer ends? Yes, add-ons like Form Timer or Quilgo can automatically submit the form once the countdown reaches zero.