How to Make a Consent Form on Google Forms: A Step-By-Step Guide

Why Use Google Forms?

1. Easy to Use: Google Forms has a simple, intuitive interface that anyone can navigate.

2. Collaborative: Multiple people can work on the same form.

3. Customizable: It offers a variety of question types, themes, and templates.

4. Integrated: Easily links with other Google services like Sheets and Drive.

5. Accessible: Forms can be shared via a link, embedded on a website, or sent via email.

Preparing for the Consent Form

1. Purpose of Data Collection: Be clear on why you are collecting data.

2. Data Handling: Explain how data will be stored, used, and disposed of.

3. Contact Information: Always provide details for someone who can answer questions about the form.

4. Participant Rights: Explain that participation is voluntary and that they can withdraw at any time.

Create a Consent Form on Google Forms

Step 1: Open Google Forms

• Navigate to Google Forms.

• Log in to your Google account if you aren't already.

• Click on the + Blank button to start a new form.

Step 2: Name Your Form

• Provide a title that succinctly describes what the form is for.

• You may also add a description to provide context or instructions.

Step 3: Choose a Template (Optional)

• If applicable, you can choose a template to suit your requirements.

Step 4: Add Consent Statement

• Add a section where you can insert your consent statement.

• You can format the text to make it easy to read.

Step 5: Include Questions or Statements that Require Agreement

• After the consent statement, add questions or statements that need agreement.

• Use the Multiple Choice question type to ask if they agree or disagree with the terms.

• Make this question required so participants must make a choice.

Step 6: Include Contact Information

• Add a section where participants can include their name, email, or other contact information.

• Make sure to specify why you are collecting this information and how it will be used.

Step 7: Customize Appearance

• Go to Customize Theme on the top right corner to adjust the appearance of your form.

• You can add images, change colors, and select fonts that align with your branding.

Step 8: Settings

• Click the gear icon on the top right to enter settings.

• Enable collecting of email addresses if needed.

• Ensure that you limit the form to one response per person to maintain data integrity.

Step 9: Test the Form

• Click the eye icon to preview the form.

• Fill it out to make sure everything is working as intended.

Step 10: Distribute the Form

• Click the Send button.

• You can send via email, generate a link, or embed it in a website.

Step 11: Collect and Manage Data

• Responses will be collected in Google Forms, but you can also view them in Google Sheets by clicking the spreadsheet icon.