The Quizzes section of the course navigation menu displays tests, exams, or surveys created in Canvas by your instructor. This page displays quiz titles, due dates, availability dates, and point values.
When you begin taking a quiz, Canvas will save your answers within your browser. If you accidentally close the quiz tab, you can resume your quiz later. However, if the quiz is timed, the timer will continue counting down. We suggest reading the recommendations on this page before beginning your quiz.
Some instructors may enable Respondus LockDown Browser for added test security during a quiz or exam. If your quiz uses Respondus, it must be installed on your device before beginning the quiz.
Canvas currently has two quiz formats: Classic Quizzes and New Quizzes. As a result, you may see quizzes appear visually different within your course. Use the images below to determine which format matches the appearance of your quizzes.
Taking a Classic Quiz
When you click on a Classic Quiz in your Canvas course, you will be taken to a screen that looks similar to the image below:
Read the instructions carefully and be sure to note the due date and whether there is a time limit. When you are ready to begin the Classic Quiz, click the Take the Quiz button. Your quiz may include multiple question types. You may see all the questions at once, or only one question at a time.
After you submit your quiz, you may be able to review your quiz results and comments, or you may need to wait for your instructor to release this information. If additional attempts are allowed, you may retake the Classic Quiz.
Taking a New Quiz
When you click on a New Quiz in your Canvas course, you will be taken to a screen that looks similar to the image below:
Read the instructions carefully and be sure to note the due date and whether there is a time limit. When you are ready to begin the New Quiz, click the Take the Quiz button. Your quiz may include multiple question types. You may see all the questions at once, or only one question at a time.
After you submit your quiz, you may be able to review your quiz results and comments, or you may need to wait for your instructor to release this information. If additional attempts are allowed, you may retake the New Quiz.
Recommendations
Proper preparation can help to simplify answering certain questions, ensure that technology runs smoothly, and make taking an online quiz more convenient.
Use a laptop or desktop computer to take all quizzes and exams. The Canvas mobile app and browser versions for phones and tablets include limited features and may not support all the tools needed to complete your quiz!
Before the Exam
- Device: Your device should meet Canvas’s device requirements with an up-to-date operating system and browser.
- Browser: We recommend installing Chrome or Firefox for best performance. You may also want to clear your browser history/cache.
- Updates: Check your computer for updates. Install any that are necessary and restart.
- Power: Arrive with a fully charged computer. Power outlets may be limited in the classroom.
Some browser extensions and security settings can interfere with taking an online exam. Please temporarily disable browser extensions and allow LTI tools before starting your exam.
During the Exam
- Internet: Connect to AirPennNet (not the guest network). If you are taking a timed Canvas exam and lose connection, the timer will continue running.
- PennKey: Some exams and computer labs may require you to sign in with your PennKey and password. Be sure you know your PennKey password and have your phone with you for multi-factor authentication.
- Notifications: Close or turn off notifications, pop-up blockers, and other applications. Certain exam tools, such as Respondus LockDown Browser, require you to close all messaging and screen recording apps before you can begin the exam.
- In particular, content blockers like uBlockOrigin can interfere with Canvas’ auto-save feature for quiz/exam questions.
- Single browser window: Using multiple windows might cause you to overwrite your answers.
Tech Tips
- Accommodations: If you have a testing accommodation, confirm that your time limit and exam availability window are correct before you begin. Contact your instructor immediately if you notice a problem. Do not start the exam until it is fixed.
- Timed Exams: Only begin a timed exam when you are ready to complete the entire test. The timer will count down regardless of whether you are actively working.
- Untimed Exams: Close the browser window when you are not actively working. This will prevent you from losing any responses if Canvas automatically logs you out after a period of inactivity. You can reopen Canvas and resume from where you stopped.
- File Uploads: If the exam requires you to upload a document, save your work frequently and save the final version to your computer. Remember where you saved the file so it is easy to find and upload. Give yourself at least five minutes before the deadline to select and upload your file in Canvas, as uploads may not submit instantly.
- Check before Submitting: Click Submit when you have finished the exam before time expires or the due date arrives. You cannot reopen submitted exams.
Internet Connection Issues
If you encounter an internet connectivity issue that interferes with your ability to complete an exam, we recommend the following actions:
- Take a screenshot or make a copy of your work for reference. If your exam uses Respondus LockDown Browser, let your proctor know you are having trouble and ask if you can use your phone to capture screenshots.
- Take note of any error messages. Share these with your instructor and your school’s Local Support Provider.
- Toggle wifi off/on and try to connect to AirPennNet (or your home network).
- Try switching internet browsers.
- Restart your computer.
Additional Resources
Getting Help
Please contact your Local Support Provider or submit a request to canvas@pobox.upenn.edu.