topic Re: Set default value for Single Select field in Survey123 in ArcGIS Survey123 Questions

Set default value for Single Select field in Survey123

Bud — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 18:10:16 GMT

Is there a way to set a default value for a Single Select field? (from within the Survey123 website > design mode)

In design mode, I tried clicking the radio button beside a choice:

But in preview mode, the choice did not get automatically selected.

If clicking the radio button in design mode doesn't set a default value, then what does it do?

Re: Set default value for Single Select field in Survey123

Neal_t_k — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 18:22:51 GMT

What you describe should work, Did you try saving and reloading?

Re: Set default value for Single Select field in Survey123

Bud — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 18:44:02 GMT

I tried saving and previewing, but no luck. The form isn't published yet.

Re: Set default value for Single Select field in Survey123

ToddW_stl — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 18:53:27 GMT

this may be expected , but I'm not 100% sure. Preview a survey says preview "displays the survey as it will appear to users, although without simulating any rules you may have put into place". I would guess that publishing would lock that setting in and the default should work.

Re: Set default value for Single Select field in Survey123

ZenMasterZeke — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 17:55:16 GMT

Works for me...

Created a blank survey in web designer at S123. Survey published to AGOL, not Enterprise.