Sample

A Sample question is used for inserting text strings from a field in an imported sample file into the survey. This allows the sample variable to be used in survey logic, and also makes the sample variable available in the data export.

Sample fields and data export

Sample fields imported into the inbuilt mailer aren’t by default available for data export. To include sample variables in the data export, they must first be inserted into the survey script as Sample objects. Insertion of Sample objects into the survey can be done at any stage during the data collection period, as long as the sample fields were included in the uploaded sample prior to the mail out of the survey.

---

Adding a Sample question

Here’s how to add a Sample question to the survey flowchart:

1. Add a Sample object to the flowchart. In Survey Editor (Legacy), drag it from the Toolbox, or double-click it. In Survey Editor (Beta), drag the Sample card from the Add to survey toolbar, or click it to add it at the end
2. Enter the sample field name — it MUST match the field in the sample file exactly:
   • Survey Editor (Legacy): enter it into the Variable Name property
   • Survey Editor (Beta): choose it in the Sample field dropdown in Quick Update or the Properties pane. The list shows the fields in the sample you’ve uploaded. If the field isn’t uploaded yet, type its name into Sample field name.

---

Appearance

Sample questions are typically hidden from survey participants. Once you’ve tested that the sample variable is being imported into the survey correctly, hide the question before launching the survey if you don’t want the participant to see the response being imported from the sample.

---

Question format

Verbatim is the only Sample question format available.

Verbatim — Used to import text strings from the sample file into the survey.

---

Position in the flowchart

If a sample field will be used in the survey (e.g. for a skip, filter, action command, conditional text), the Sample object must be placed at the beginning of the survey, prior to any questions that reference the sample field.

If there are a large number of sample fields to be imported into the survey, consider placing the Sample objects that aren’t needed for scripting purposes at the very end of the survey. Too many hidden Sample objects at the start of the survey may slow the page loading time and have a negative impact on user experience.

---

Data structure

For each Sample question, you’ll find one text variable in your dataset.

Question Format	Variable Type	Example Response
Verbatim	Text	Postcode = 2350

---

Use Sample question in survey

Sample question responses can be used in skips, filters, action commands, and conditional text throughout a survey. A Sample question functions in the same way as a Verbatim.