Google Forms vs Microsoft Forms for Quizzes: A Student's View
Google Forms and Microsoft Forms both run school quizzes, but they behave differently. Compare timers, scoring, question types and what you see after submitting.
Some schools use Google Forms, some use Microsoft Forms, and some teachers use both. They look similar, but a few differences affect how you take quizzes. Here is a side-by-side view from the student's chair.
Ecosystems
- Google Forms is part of Google Workspace and connects with Google Classroom.
- Microsoft Forms is part of Microsoft 365 and connects with Teams and OneNote.
Your school's choice of ecosystem usually decides which one you use.
Timers
- Google Forms: no built-in timer. Teachers use add-ons or close the form at a set time. See does Google Forms have a timer?.
- Microsoft Forms: creators can set a time duration for a quiz, so a countdown appears when you start.
Question types
Both support multiple choice, text answers, ratings and dates. Differences:
- Google Forms has grids (multiple choice and checkbox grids) and file upload.
- Microsoft Forms has ranking, Likert and some built-in math features, which some teachers use for maths quizzes.
See Google Forms question types explained.
Scoring and results
- Google Forms: teachers choose to release scores immediately or later, and whether to show missed questions, correct answers and point values.
- Microsoft Forms: teachers can show results after submission and review responses before posting scores, often with feedback per question.
Either way, check for a results link after submitting and read any feedback.
Shuffling
Both can shuffle questions and options, so classmates often see different orders.
Locking
- Google Forms: locked mode on school-managed Chromebooks.
- Microsoft Forms: schools may rely on other tools, such as secure browsers or device policies.
Studying for either one
The best preparation is identical:
- Practise with questions in the same format.
- Answer first, then check.
- Review every mistake after results are released.
Browser-based study tools work on both, because both run in the browser. TrustStudy reads a highlighted or double-clicked question on either kind of form and shows the answer in the corner, which is useful on practice quizzes.
The rules do not change with the platform
Learn more
For deeper guides, see how Google Forms quizzes work and Google Forms quiz tips for students.
Study with TrustStudy
Try the question yourself, then highlight it and press Alt + X to check your answer right on the page. No tabs, no copy-paste. Start with 20 free credits.
Install extensionFrequently asked questions
Does Microsoft Forms have a timer?
Microsoft Forms lets quiz creators set a time duration, so a countdown can appear once you start. Google Forms has no built-in timer and relies on add-ons.
Which is better for students, Google Forms or Microsoft Forms?
Neither is better for students in general. You use whichever your school chose. The biggest differences are in timers, math support and how results are shown.
Can I study the same way for both?
Yes. Practice questions, checking answers after trying and reviewing mistakes work the same way on both platforms.