In this article:

Google Forms Multiple Choice vs. Checkboxes (2024 Guide)

In this article, we cover and explain the key difference between multiple choice and checkboxes in Google Forms. Read on to learn more.

Multiple Choice in Google Forms Defined

The "Multiple choice" question type in Google Forms allows users to select one option from a predefined set of choices. It is ideal for questions where only one answer is considered correct or applicable.

Example: "What is your age group?"

The possible options could be:

  • Under 18
  • 18-24
  • 25-34
  • 35-44
  • 45-54
  • 55-64
  • 65 or older

Here's how it should look like in Google Forms:

google forms checkbox vs multiple choice

Checkboxes in Google Forms Defined

Checkboxes in Google Forms allow respondents to choose several options from a list of answers. They are used when multiple selections are relevant and valid for a single question.

Example: "Which of the following hobbies do you engage in?"

The possible options could be:

  • Reading
  • Gardening
  • Photography
  • Cooking
  • Cycling
  • Other

Here's how it should look like in Google Forms:

google forms checkboxes vs multiple choice

Checkboxes vs. Multiple Choice in Google Forms: How Do They Differ? 

Let's compare the checkbox and multiple-choice question types in Google Forms together to highlight their differences:

Functionality

Checkboxes: Permits multiple selections from a set of predefined options.

Multiple choice: Only allows for one selection from a set of predefined options.

User Interface

Checkboxes: Presents options with small square boxes that can be ticked, visually indicating that multiple selections are possible.

Multiple Choice: Presents options with radio buttons, which symbolize a singular choice.

Use Case

Checkboxes: Suitable for inquiries that are multifaceted or where participants may have more than one affiliation or preference.

Multiple Choice: Best for questions where the respondent must make a decision or where only one option is applicable.

Limitations

Checkboxes: Can lead to an overwhelming number of choices if not used judiciously, potentially complicating the data analysis process.

Multiple Choice: Restrictive in the sense that it doesn't allow for the complexity of answers where more than one may apply.

Data Collection and Analysis

Checkboxes: While versatile, they can make data analysis more complex due to the variability of multiple responses.

Multiple Choice: Simplifies analysis since each response corresponds to one clear choice, making it easy to tally and interpret results.

We hope that this article has helped you and given you a better understanding of the difference between multiple choice vs. checkboxes in Google Forms. If you enjoyed this article, you might also like our article on question options on Google Forms or our article on how to make a sign up sheet on Google Forms. If you want to know how to set up approval workflow on Google Forms, we also suggest checking out our detailed guide. 

Get Google Forms productivity and automation tips delivered straight to your inbox
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
We'll email you 1-3 times a week — and never share your information.

Work less, automate more!

Use Lido to connect your spreadsheets to email, Slack, calendars, and more to automate data transfers and eliminate manual copying and pasting. View all use cases ->