> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://bigbluebutton.com/docs/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Keeping Time

> Use the timer and stopwatch to pace activities and keep your session on track.

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

| Scenario                 | Tool      | Suggested Time                   |
| ------------------------ | --------- | -------------------------------- |
| Breakout room discussion | Timer     | 5–10 minutes                     |
| Quick poll response time | Timer     | 1–2 minutes                      |
| Presentation practice    | Stopwatch | Track duration                   |
| Quiz or assessment       | Timer     | Set per question or total        |
| Transition warning       | Timer     | 1–2 minutes before next activity |

See [Timer and Stopwatch](/docs/help/releases/timer-and-stopwatch) for setup instructions and details.