How to Add Branching Logic in REDCap
Branching logic is a powerful feature in REDCap (Research Electronic Data Capture) that allows researchers to dynamically route participants through a survey or data collection instrument based on their responses to previous questions. This functionality is particularly useful in studies with complex data collection needs, where the path a participant takes may vary depending on their answers. In this article, we will guide you through the process of adding branching logic in REDCap, ensuring that your data collection process is efficient and tailored to the specific needs of your research.
Understanding Branching Logic in REDCap
Before diving into the steps to add branching logic, it’s essential to understand how it works. Branching logic in REDCap is based on rules that you define, which are triggered by the responses to specific questions. When a participant answers a question, REDCap evaluates the rules associated with that question and determines the next set of questions to display. This process continues until the participant completes the survey or reaches the end of the data collection instrument.
Steps to Add Branching Logic in REDCap
1.
Design Your Study’s Logic
Before you start adding branching logic in REDCap, it’s crucial to design the logic for your study. Determine which questions will trigger branching and how the participant’s responses will affect the flow of the survey. This step will help you create a clear and efficient branching structure.
2.
Access the Survey Builder
Once you have your logic designed, log in to your REDCap account and navigate to the “Surveys” section. Click on the survey you want to add branching logic to, and then select the “Survey Builder” tab.
3.
Configure Branching Logic
In the Survey Builder, click on the “Branching Logic” button located in the upper-right corner of the page. This will open the branching logic editor, where you can define the rules for your survey.
4.
Create a New Rule
To create a new rule, click the “Add Rule” button. This will open a dialog box where you can specify the question you want to base the rule on, the response value that will trigger the rule, and the conditions for the rule to be applied.
5.
Set the Next Question
After defining the rule, you will need to specify the next question that should be displayed based on the rule’s conditions. This can be a specific question or a set of questions, depending on your study’s design.
6.
Test Your Branching Logic
Once you have added all the necessary rules and set the next questions, it’s essential to test your branching logic to ensure it works as intended. You can do this by running a test survey and navigating through the different paths to verify that the branching logic is functioning correctly.
7.
Publish Your Survey
After testing and confirming that your branching logic is working, you can publish your survey to make it available for participants. Ensure that you have set the appropriate permissions and access levels for your study’s participants.
Conclusion
Adding branching logic in REDCap can significantly enhance the efficiency and flexibility of your data collection process. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a tailored survey that adapts to the unique needs of your research. Remember to thoroughly test your branching logic to ensure it functions correctly and provides a seamless experience for your participants.
