hidden

A type: hidden question creates a text input field that is not visible to respondents but generates HTML elements on the survey page.

It is commonly used to store calculated values derived from other questions or variables. Note, coded variables are the newer, preferred methods to calculate hidden values.

R1_AGEMATH. VAR | Pet adopted from current year - Row 1 
translate: n
type: hidden
cvalue: ((localtime time)[5] + 1900)-$QSGETPETR1C2

Hidden vs. Invisible

A type: hidden question has important differences from a question widget with an invisible: y tag.

• Hidden: Generates HTML and forces the page to display, even if no visible content exists. This allows JavaScript manipulation, as demonstrated in the example below.
• Invisible: Does not generate HTML and will not display a page without other visible content.

Additional examples

Validating a tooltip

In the example below, a script updates the value of Q555 to '1' when the explain tag  from the set text MYINFO1 is viewed. The validation ensures Q555 equals '1' before proceeding.

See demo See code Restart demo