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BigBlueButton includes built-in timer and stopwatch tools to help you manage time during your session.

Timer (Countdown)

Use the countdown timer to set time limits for activities:
  • Set a duration (e.g., 5 minutes for a breakout room discussion)
  • The timer is visible to all participants
  • An alert sounds when time is up
  • Great for timed activities, quizzes, or transition warnings

Stopwatch (Count Up)

Use the stopwatch to track elapsed time:
  • Start the stopwatch at the beginning of an activity
  • Visible to all participants
  • Useful for open-ended activities where you want to monitor how long things take

Common Uses

ScenarioToolSuggested Time
Breakout room discussionTimer5–10 minutes
Quick poll response timeTimer1–2 minutes
Presentation practiceStopwatchTrack duration
Quiz or assessmentTimerSet per question or total
Transition warningTimer1–2 minutes before next activity
See Timer and Stopwatch for setup instructions and details.