Free Text is an open-ended question type that allows users to type in a specific answer rather than choosing from a list. By default, the answer must match exactly what's been set as correct, including case sensitive, making it a strict, precise check. It can also be configured to loosen this where appropriate, such as ignoring case, accepting numbers only, or requiring a set number of characters, which helps account for minor typos without giving up the exact-match requirement.
How to create a Free Text question type
- Go to the topic you want to add a question to
- Select 'New Question' to start creating your question
- Scroll down and select the 'Free Text' option
Once you've written your question, scroll down to choose whether the answer should be case-sensitive or not. You can also set answers to convert to uppercase or lowercase automatically, if that's a preference. Additionally, you have the option to restrict the answer to numbers only, or require an exact number of characters. All of these settings are optional and aren't required to use the Free Text question type.
You can add an explanation to the question, or leave it blank — this is optional, and consistent with every other question type available. A timer can also be added, though again this is optional.
Once you've finished, make sure to save the question, then activate it so it starts circulating within the chosen topic.