Predefined Codes

Predefined Codes

What Predefined Codes Are

Predefined codes are category codebooks that you create in advance. They define:

• Code numbers — Numeric identifiers (1, 2, 3…)
• Code descriptions — What each code means (“Very Satisfied”, “Price too high”, etc.)

When to Use Predefined Codes

Scenario	Benefit
Tracking studies	Same codes across multiple waves
Team projects	Everyone uses identical categories
Regulatory requirements	Standardized coding for compliance
Academic research	Replicable, documented coding schemes
Client deliverables	Match client’s existing framework

Creating Predefined Codes

Manual Entry

1. Navigate to Templates → Codes tab
2. Click New Codes
3. Enter a name (e.g., “Satisfaction Codes”, “Brand Categories Q3 2024”)
4. Add codes one by one:
   • Code number: 1
   • Description: “Very Satisfied”
   • Click Add
5. Continue until all codes are entered
6. Click Save

Import from Excel file

For larger codebooks, import from Excel:

Excel Format:

Code	Description
1	Very Satisfied
2	Satisfied
3	Neutral
4	Dissatisfied
5	Very Dissatisfied
6	Other

1. Click Import from Excel file in the Codes section
2. Select your Excel file
3. Review imported codes
4. Save

Predefined Codes Best Practices

Code numbering:

• Use sequential numbers (1, 2, 3…)
• Reserve specific numbers for special categories (e.g., 99 for “Other”)
• Be consistent across related code sets

Descriptions:

• Keep descriptions clear and concise
• Avoid ambiguous terms
• Include examples in template description if helpful

Special categories:

• Include “Other” for uncategorizable responses
• Include “None” or “N/A” if needed
• Consider “Don’t Know” or “Refused” for certain surveys