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What Does Unlink Form Mean in Google Forms? (2024 Update)

In this article, we will explore what unlink form means in Google Forms. We will also share how to unlink a form from Google Sheets. Read on to learn more. 

What Does Unlink Form Mean in Google Forms?

In Google Forms, "unlink form" typically refers to the action of disconnecting a form from a spreadsheet where its responses are being recorded. When you create a Google Form, you have the option to collect responses directly within the form or to link it to a Google Sheets spreadsheet. 

Here’s what happens when you unlink a form from a spreadsheet:

1. Immediate Disconnection from Spreadsheet

Upon unlinking, the Google Form is immediately disconnected from the associated spreadsheet. Consequently, any new responses submitted will not be recorded in the previously connected spreadsheet. However, the form will continue to gather responses through the Google Forms platform.

2. Data Preservation in the Spreadsheet

Unlinking the form ensures that data already collected and transferred to the spreadsheet prior to the disconnection is retained. There is no deletion of past responses from the spreadsheet as a result of unlinking, safeguarding your valuable data.

3. Re-linking Options Available

Post-unlinking, you retain the flexibility to link the form to a new spreadsheet. This capability is particularly beneficial for categorizing responses based on different criteria such as dates, events, or specific projects which enable organized data collection for diverse needs.

4. Form Remains Unaffected

The process of unlinking a form from a spreadsheet leaves the form itself unchanged. You can continue to modify, distribute, and collect responses through the form without any disruptions or alterations to its functionality.

How to Unlink a Form from Google Sheets

Follow the steps below to unlink a form in Google Sheets. 

1. Click the Spreadsheet Icon in Google Forms to Open the Linked Sheet

If you have your Google Form open, navigate to the responses tab. Here, you'll find a green spreadsheet icon. Click this icon to open the linked Google Sheet.

what does unlink form mean in google forms

2. Select the 'Form' Option from the Menu Bar in Google Sheets

Once the Google Sheet is open, locate the "three dots icon" option at the top. This menu contains settings related to your form.

what is unlink form in google forms

3. Click 'Unlink form' from the 'Form' Dropdown Menu

In the "Form" menu, look for an option that says "Unlink form" or something similar. Clicking this will start the process to detach the form from this spreadsheet.

4. Confirm Your Choice to Unlink the Form

A confirmation dialog box will appear asking if you're sure you want to unlink the form. Confirm your choice to proceed with the unlinking.

5. Check and Save Your Changes in Google Sheets

While changes are typically saved automatically in Google Sheets, it's a good practice to manually check if all changes, including the unlinking, are saved.

6. Refresh Google Sheets and Verify the Form is Unlinked

To make sure the form is fully unlinked, refresh your Google Sheet. Then, revisit the "Form" menu. The option to edit or view the form should no longer be available, confirming the form is unlinked.

We hope that you now have a better understanding of what unlink form means in Google Forms and how to unlink a form from Google Sheets. If you enjoyed this article, you might also like our article on whether Google Forms can be read aloud or our article on how to integrate Google Forms with Asana.

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