> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.formswrite.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Timed exams

> Set up timed exams with countdown timers and auto-submission

Formswrite supports timed exams for both Google Forms and Formswrite Forms. A countdown timer is shown to respondents, and the form auto-submits when time expires.

## Setting up a timed exam

1. Convert your document to a form as usual
2. In the **Conversion Modal**, enable **Timed Exam**
3. Set the **duration in minutes** (default: 30 minutes)
4. Complete the conversion

The timer starts when the respondent opens the form.

## How it works

* A visible countdown timer appears at the top of the form
* As time runs low, the timer provides a visual warning
* When time expires, the form automatically submits with whatever answers have been entered
* Late responses are not accepted after the timer expires

## Additional exam settings (Formswrite Forms)

When creating a Formswrite Form (not Google Forms), you get additional exam security options:

| Setting                | Description                                           |
| ---------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------- |
| **Collect email**      | Require respondents to enter their email address      |
| **Email verification** | Send a verification email before allowing form access |
| **Limit one response** | Each email address can only submit once               |
| **Timed exam**         | Enable countdown timer with auto-submit               |

<Tip>Combining **email verification** with **one response per email** prevents students from submitting multiple times or sharing forms.</Tip>

## Best practices for timed exams

* Give students enough time — as a rule of thumb, allow 1-2 minutes per multiple choice question
* Test the timer yourself before sharing with students
* Communicate the time limit to students before they start
* Consider adding a few extra minutes as buffer for technical issues