Create an Allocation question

Ask participants to divide a numerical value among competing answer options.

Note: To view Allocation responses in reporting, you must export your report. For more information, see Export a report to Excel.

Allocation question from the participant's perspective

Modern survey (mobile):

Classic survey (desktop):

Classic survey (mobile):

1. From the Survey Builder Toolbox, under Advanced Questions, do one of the following:
   • Drag the Allocation question to the Table of Contents.
   • Click the Allocation question.
   
2. In the Table of Contents, click the Allocation question.
   The Edit Pane appears. By default, the allocation amount is 100.
3. Optional: Edit the Question name.

   Question names:

   • Should be unique.
   • Can contain symbols and all alphanumeric characters.
   • Are not displayed to participants.
4. In the Question text field, enter the question text.
   Note: The recommended character limit is 2500.
5. In the Items fields, enter the items you want participants to allocate amounts to.
6. Optional: Add another item by clicking Add.
   Tip:

   • To create a line break within an item, type Shift+Enter if you are on a PC, or Shift+Return if you are on a Mac.
   • To create a new item, type Enter if you are on a PC, or Return if you are on a Mac.
   • To enter multiple values at the same time, click Add Items in Batch. For more information, see Add answers in a batch.
7. Optional: Move an Item by doing one of the following:
   • Grab the Drag handle on the left side of the Item field, and move the item up or down.
   • Click the Options button, and select Move up or Move down.
8. Optional: Remove an item by clicking Delete.
   
9. Optional: Set your answer properties.
   1. In the Amount to allocate field, enter a new allocation amount.
   2. Select Show unit of measurement, and then enter the unit you would like to use.
      For example, US Dollars.
   3. Select whether you want participants to see the unit of measurement Before text box or After text box.
   4. To require participants to allocate the full amount, select Must use full allocation amount.
      Note: When this box is clear, participants are able to skip the question without allocating an amount.
10. Optional: Once you have authored your question, you can also:
    • Format the question
    • Pipe answers or variables into the question or answer text
    • Set the answer behavior
    • Define how participants move through the survey
    • Hide the question
    • Duplicate the question
    • Delete the question
11. Optional: To preview the question in desktop or mobile view, in the Edit Pane, click Preview.
    
    A preview of your survey appears, starting with the selected question.

    Note: Preview in mobile view simulates the mobile experience. For best results, preview your question on a mobile device.