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Build and test matrix questions

Configure rows and columns separately, keep scales consistent, and check each matrix cell in the participant view.

Updated October 6, 2026

Screenshots from the original Surveylet guide illustrate the controls below. Layouts and labels may vary with your survey configuration. Select an image or “View full size” to open it in a new tab.

Design a clear matrix

Use a matrix when several items share the same response structure. Rows usually represent items; columns represent response dimensions such as importance and feasibility. Matrix columns can have different input types.

  1. Create the matrix and set its rows and columns.
  2. Enter descriptive row and column labels.
  3. Configure each column’s type, choices, required status, comments, virtual “I don’t know,” consensus measure, and feedback.
  4. Review row-specific settings, including KPI assignment, visibility, and help text.
  5. Preview and test the matrix on a small screen and with keyboard navigation.
Example matrix with multiple items and rating columns.
Example matrix with multiple items and rating columns. View full size (opens in a new tab)
More screenshots and examples (1)
The matrix table question organizes related items in rows and columns.
The matrix table question organizes related items in rows and columns. View full size (opens in a new tab)

Display and row options

Display Visual Charts controls whether supported matrix analytics use visual charts rather than compact numeric displays. Help Window Position controls whether row help appears to the left, right, or below the relevant label.

Matrix row visibility can be Visible, Locked, Hidden, or Hide Voting Area. Hide Voting Area retains descriptive labels while hiding the input columns. Row titles can separate blocks for supported row randomization.

Matrix Question Settings controls the matrix as a whole.
Matrix Question Settings controls the matrix as a whole. View full size (opens in a new tab)
More screenshots and examples (2)
Matrix Row Settings controls an individual row.
Matrix Row Settings controls an individual row. View full size (opens in a new tab)
Matrix Column Settings controls an individual rating or input column.
Matrix Column Settings controls an individual rating or input column. View full size (opens in a new tab)

Check the analysis unit

A matrix can collect several answers from one person, one for each relevant cell or row/column combination. Counts for the whole matrix, a single cell, and the whole survey are therefore different. Check the row and column identifiers in exports.

Large matrices may be hard to read on a phone. Split dense sections into smaller matrices or pages and shorten labels without losing their meaning. Test required fields, comment popups, Save, and the footer together.

Common questions

Can I set different rules for two matrix dimensions?

Review the settings for each matrix column. A shared matrix title does not mean all columns have the same scale, consensus rule, or feedback configuration.

Need help with a specific survey? Participants should contact their study team. Administrators can contact Calibrum.

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