Custom Variables
This article will show you how to create a Custom Variable(s)
Background
'Custom Variables' are very useful when you are trying to create data-points in your project which do not have to be shown to respondents. These can be used in a number of ways.
There are three types of variables:
- Single:
- This is similar to a single dimensional question (radio).
- This can be used in two main ways:
- You can add a response list to use it to set a mutually exclusive single punch item such as a truncated age bucket which contains labels. Using this method you can use this variable to cut the data or to use it as a banner or stub in any sort of tables for reporting.
- You can also utilize this without a response list. This will allow you to use it as a counter variable as an example.
- Text:
- This is similar to a a multi dimensional question (text fields).
- If you add multiple responses, each one will be its own variable.
- This can be used to hold text for multiple items in a response list which can then be used for piping if needed.
- Numeric:
- This is similar to a a multi dimensional question (numeric fields).
- If you add multiple responses, each one will be its own variable.
- These can be set to a numeric value for any reason. Some examples would be:
- to hold ranking numbers,
- to hold the items which are each set to the corresponding position
- to hold the positions which are each set to the corresponding item number
- to group counters together if needed
Below are directions on how to create custom variables.
Creating a Custom Variable:
- Access the 'Build & Edit Tool'
- Click on 'Variables' on the left hand side. This will expand the Variable section.
- Click on '+ Custom Variable'
- In the 'New Variable' window type in your variable name.
- This can use letters, numbers and underscores
- This must start with a letter
- In the 'Choose a type' dropdown, 'Single' is the default but you can select the one you need (Single/Text/Numeric)
- Click on 'Create'
