The columns of the matrix questions can be sorted in a variety of ways.

As Specified Below

This is the default sorting method for the columns. The columns are sorted based on the column text, and are listed in the same order as they are listed in the list of columns (answer choices).

Randomize Columns

With this option selected, the columns are randomly sorted based on the column text. When a question is set to randomize columns, the columns are only randomized when the survey participant first encounters the question. When the survey participant returns to the question again, the column order remains the same as when they first viewed the question. In other words, the column randomization process is only executed once per respondent.

Alphabetize Columns

The columns are listed alphabetically based on the column text when this option is selected.