Option Exclusivity
The option mutual exclusion feature allows you to set certain options as mutually exclusive in checkboxes and matrix checkbox. When a respondent selects a mutually exclusive option, any previously selected options will be automatically deselected, ensuring that only one option can be selected at a time.
Feature Overview
This feature is specifically designed for:
- Checkboxes
- Matrix Checkbox
How It Works
1. When an option is marked as mutually exclusive:
- Selecting this option will automatically deselect any other previously selected options
- This ensures that respondents can only select one option at a time
Setting Up Mutual Exclusion
1. Access the question settings
2. Locate the option you want to make mutually exclusive
3. Enable the mutual exclusion setting for that option


Important Notes
- This feature is only available for checkboxes and matrix checkbox
- You can set multiple options as mutually exclusive
- The mutual exclusion behavior is immediate and automatic
- This feature helps ensure data quality by preventing contradictory responses
Note: Consider carefully which options should be mutually exclusive, as this will affect how respondents can answer your question.
Example Questions
Example 1: Checkboxes Question
In this example, if a respondent selects "None of the above", any other selected options will be automatically deselected. This ensures that the primary contact method is clearly identified.
Example 2: Matrix Checkbox Question
In this matrix question, if a respondent selects "Must Have" for any question, other selected options for that question will be automatically deselected.
Note: In both examples, the mutually exclusive options are marked with "(Mutually Exclusive)" to indicate their special behavior. When these options are selected, they will automatically deselect any other options in their respective groups.
FAQs
Q: Which question types support the mutual exclusion feature?
A: The mutual exclusion feature is only available for checkboxes and matrix checkbox questions. It does not work with other question types like single choice or multiple choice questions.
Q: How does mutual exclusion work when a respondent selects an exclusive option?
A: When a respondent selects a mutually exclusive option, any previously selected options will be automatically deselected immediately. This ensures that only one option can be selected at a time.
Q: Can I set multiple options as mutually exclusive?
A: Yes, you can set multiple options as mutually exclusive. Each exclusive option will automatically deselect any other selected options when chosen.
Q: Is the mutual exclusion behavior immediate?
A: Yes, the mutual exclusion behavior is immediate and automatic. As soon as a respondent selects an exclusive option, other selections are deselected without any delay.
Q: How do I enable mutual exclusion for an option?
A: Access the question settings, locate the option you want to make mutually exclusive, and enable the mutual exclusion setting for that specific option.
Q: What happens if I don't mark any options as mutually exclusive?
A: If no options are marked as mutually exclusive, respondents can select multiple options normally without any automatic deselection behavior.
Q: Can I change the mutual exclusion setting after respondents have answered?
A: Yes, you can modify mutual exclusion settings at any time, but changes will only affect future responses. Existing responses will retain their original selection patterns.
Q: How does mutual exclusion help with data quality?
A: Mutual exclusion prevents contradictory responses by ensuring respondents can only select one option at a time, leading to cleaner and more consistent data collection.
Q: Are mutually exclusive options clearly marked for respondents?
A: Yes, mutually exclusive options are typically marked with "(Mutually Exclusive)" to clearly indicate their special behavior to respondents.
Q: Can I use mutual exclusion in combination with other question features?
A: Yes, mutual exclusion can be used alongside other question features like required fields, validation rules, and conditional logic, providing comprehensive question control.