Yes, you can export data from multiple surveys into a single Excel file. This feature helps you compare results across surveys, aggregate data, or perform comprehensive analyses without manually combining files.

Quick overview

PaperSurvey automatically aligns data from different surveys based on matching column headers or question labels. The system creates a unified dataset with all responses in one spreadsheet, plus a reference sheet for validation.

How the export works

Data alignment

• Responses are grouped by matching Export Column Headers or Question Labels
• Questions must have identical headers across surveys to merge correctly
• The system preserves data integrity while combining responses

Answer matching for multiple-choice questions

• Single-choice and multiple-choice answers match by numeric values
• This ensures consistent data representation across surveys
• Different option labels with the same values will align properly

Reference sheet validation

• Every export includes a Reference sheet
• Maps option labels to numeric values for quick look up
• Allows you to verify and adjust data alignment

Step-by-step instructions

1. Access the export tool

Navigate to your account settings:

• Go to https://www.papersurvey.io/app/settings/tools
• Click "Export Multiple Surveys"

2. Select surveys to combine

• Choose all surveys you want to include
• Ensure they share similar question structures

3. Verify data consistency

Before exporting:

• Check that column headers match exactly across surveys
• Confirm numeric values for multiple-choice options are consistent
• Review any questions that might not align properly

4. Generate the export

• Click "Export" to create your consolidated file
• The system will process and merge all selected surveys
• Download starts automatically when complete

5. Review and adjust if needed

• Open the Excel file and check the Reference sheet
• Verify option mappings are correct
• Edit "Recoded Values" column if adjustments are needed

Common use cases

Research studies

Combine surveys from:

• Different time periods or locations
• Multiple research phases
• Various participant groups

Customer feedback analysis

Aggregate responses from:

• Multiple product launches
• Different customer segments
• Seasonal campaigns

Educational assessments

Consolidate data from:

• Multiple classes or courses
• Different academic terms
• Various assessment types

Tips for best results

• Plan ahead: Design surveys with consistent question labels
• Use standard values: Keep numeric codes consistent across surveys
• Document changes: Note any recoding in the Reference sheet
• Test first: Try exporting a small sample before full datasets

What to do if columns don't match

If your surveys have different question labels:

1. Export surveys individually first
2. Standardize column headers in Excel
3. Re-import if needed, or work with separate exports

Remember that exact matching is required for automatic alignment. Small differences in wording will create separate columns.

Next steps

After exporting, you can:

• Analyze combined data in Excel or statistical software
• Create pivot tables for cross-survey comparisons
• Generate unified reports from all responses

For additional help with data analysis or export issues, contact our support team through the in-app chat.