Millisecond Forums » Millisecond Forums » Inquisit 6 » IQScript, /branch, return inside /onTrialEnd and providing feedback after or ???

IQScript, /branch, return inside /onTrialEnd and providing feedback after or ???

EN — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 01:12:20 GMT

Hello:

I wanted to provide feedback to participants immediately after a <trial> that has a /branch section within it. The /branch will--depending on the participant's response--call a <surveypage> using 'return' (I copied the current code below in case it's helpful -- the <trial> in case is BoxClick_Trial).

To display the feedback after each <trial>, I thought about using additional 'return' commands inside the /onTrialEnd section. The idea was to use 'return' to call another <trial> (after updating some global variables) whose only job is to display a customized message on the screen. However, using 'return' inside the /onTrialEnd section does not seem to be allowed.

After some fiddling, I decided to move portions of the code that were originally inside /onTrialEnd to inside the /branch, right after the conditional call to <surveypage>. However, and somehow expectedly in hindsight, because the flow of the program returns directly to /onTrialEnd after it is deviated by the /branch, I still have not found a way to display the feedback if the <surveypage> is called (if <surveypage> is _not called_, feedbacks are properly displayed by the code following the 'return' command in the /branch).

I guess this is a fairly common case but I wonder what would be the best way to handle it?
Any help would be greatly appreciated!
With very best wishes,
EN
--
// Global variables -- some of these variables should be re-defined in emot_induction.iqx

<values>
//Thresholds specified by the procedure defined in calibration_time_boxcount.iqx
// Here defined only for testing purposes
/ easyThresh50 = 8 //The number of boxes at the 50% level
/ mediumThresh65 = 10 //The number of boxes at the 65% level
/ mediumThresh80 = 13 //The number of boxes at the 80% level
/ hardThresh95 = 15 //The number of boxes at the 95% level

// From here -- may have to be specified globally to be used in other places
// Total number of boxes clicked in box_clicking
/ box_clicking_boxesChecked = -1
/ YOU_reward = 0
/ OTHER_reward = 0
/ choice_made = 0
/ choice_not_made = 0
/ obtained_reward = 0

// From here -- specific to social_effort_box_click_task.iqx
//Color of trial type -- in fact, red (YOU) or blue (OTHER)
/ c_colorname = black
//Stores the selected combination of effort and reward -- e.g., e1_r1 means the lowest effort and the lowest reward
/ eff_rew = "e0_r0" // for filling purposes, this condition DOES NOT EXIST

// Position of the two choices
/ effortX = 0%
/ restX = 0%

// Trial type
/ trialType = null

// Strings to be displayed at every trial
/ centerLabel = null // will be either YOU or OTHER
/ effortCredits = 0
/ effortBoxes = 0

</values>

<parameters> //
//These are the rewards (fixed for all participants)
/ low_pay = 2 //Low reward
/ medium_pay = 6 //Medium reward
/ high_pay = 10 //High reward

/ num_trials = 24 // total number of trials
</parameters>

// data to be saved in summary file -- CONSIDER ADDING ITEMS in the future
<summarydata>
/columns = (script.startdate, script.starttime, script.subjectid, script.groupid,
 script.elapsedtime, computer.platform, values.YOU_reward, values.OTHER_reward,
 values.choice_made, values.choice_not_made)
</summarydata>

// data to be saved in raw data file
<data>
/columns = (date, time, group, subject, session, build, blockNum, trialNum, blockCode, trialCode,
 pretrialPause, posttrialPause, response, correct, latency,
 stimulusitem, stimulusnumber, stimulusonset,
 stimulusitem, stimulusnumber, stimulusonset,
 stimulusitem, stimulusnumber, stimulusonset,
 values.box_clicking_boxesChecked, values.effortBoxes, values.effortCredits, values.obtained_reward, values.effortX)
</data>

// These checkboxes will also be defined in emot_induction.iqx -- must comment them when transferring!
<checkboxes row1>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("1", "2", "3", "4", "5", "6", "7", "8", "9", "10")
/ optionvalues = ("1", "2", "3", "4","5", "6", "7", "8", "9", "10")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row2>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("11", "12", "13", "14", "15", "16", "17", "18", "19", "20")
/ optionvalues = ("11", "12", "13", "14","15", "16", "17", "18", "19", "20")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row3>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("21", "22", "23", "24", "25", "26", "27", "28", "29", "30")
/ optionvalues = ("21", "22", "23", "24","25", "26", "27", "28", "29", "30")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row4>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("31", "32", "33", "34", "35", "36", "37", "38", "39", "40")
/ optionvalues = ("31", "32", "33", "34","35", "36", "37", "38", "39", "40")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row5>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("41", "42", "43", "44", "45", "46", "47", "48", "49", "50")
/ optionvalues = ("41", "42", "43", "44","45", "46", "47", "48", "49", "50")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<surveypage box_clicking>
/ onTrialBegin = [
 values.box_clicking_boxesChecked = -1
]
/ onTrialEnd = [
values.box_clicking_boxesChecked = checkboxes.row1.selectedCount + checkboxes.row2.selectedCount + checkboxes.row3.selectedCount + checkboxes.row4.selectedCount + checkboxes.row5.selectedCount;
]
/caption = "You must click at least <%values.effortBoxes%> boxes"
/questions = [1-5=sequence(row1, row2, row3, row4, row5)]
/ itemfontstyle = ("Arial", 2.00%, false, false, false, false, 5, 1)
/ itemspacing = 0.0%
/ showpagenumbers = false
/ showbackbutton = false
/ showquestionnumbers = false
/ responsefontstyle = ("Arial", 2.0%, false, false, false, false, 5, 1)
/ timeout = 10000 // 10 seconds
/ showNextButton = false
</surveypage>

<block SocialEffort_Block>
/ onBlockBegin = [
 // Randomized trial type order -- 24 trials
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //1
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //2
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //3
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //4
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //5
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //6
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //7
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //8
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //9
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //10
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //11
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //12
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //13
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //14
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //15
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //16
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //17
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //18
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //19
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //20
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //21
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //22
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //23
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //24
 // Randomized YOU effort-reward 12 pairs
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //1
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //2
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //3
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //4
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //5
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //6
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //7
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //8
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //9
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //10
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //11
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //12
 // Randomized OTHER effort-reward 12 pairs
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //1
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //2
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //3
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //4
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //5
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //6
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //7
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //8
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //9
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //10
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //11
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //12
]
// trials = [1-parameters.num_trials = BoxClick_Trial]
/ trials = [1-24 = BoxClick_Trial] // ATTENTION: defining the number of trials manually....

// trials = [1-24 = Full_Trial] // ATTENTION: defining the number of trials manually....

</block>

<trial BoxClick_Trial>
/ onTrialBegin = [
// pick random postion for effort_option
values.effortX = list.x.nextValue;
// pick position for rest_option
values.restX = list.x.nextValue;
// set trial type
 values.trialType = list.trialTypeList.nextValue;
// set center label according to trial type
if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 values.c_colorname = red;
 values.eff_rew = list.YOU_eff_rewList.nextValue;
} else { // OTHER
 values.c_colorname = blue;
 values.eff_rew = list.OTHER_eff_rewList.nextValue;
}
 // set winnings and effort according to the value in eff_rew
 if (values.eff_rew == "e1_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.easyThresh50;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e1_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.easyThresh50;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e1_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.easyThresh50;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e2_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh65;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e2_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh65;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e2_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh65;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e3_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh80;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e3_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh80;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e3_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh80;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e4_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.hardThresh95;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e4_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.hardThresh95;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e4_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.hardThresh95;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 }
 // Reset the variable box_clicking_boxesChecked
 values.box_clicking_boxesChecked = -1;
]
/ stimulusframes = [1=effort_option, rest_option, center_label]
/ inputdevice = mouse
/ validresponse = (effort_option, rest_option)
/ timeout = 4000 // participant must make a choice in 4000 ms

/ branch = [
 if (trial.BoxClick_Trial.response=="effort_option") { // if subj chose the effortful option
 // run the clicking box survey
 return surveyPage.box_clicking;
 // otherwise, update the rewards (rest option) --> display feedback
 } else if (trial.BoxClick_Trial.response=="rest_option"){ // chose the rest option -- assuming that rest option's reward is 1
 values.choice_made = values.choice_made + 1;
 values.obtained_reward = 1;
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 values.YOU_reward = values.YOU_reward + 1; // assuming that rest option's reward is 1
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else {
 values.OTHER_reward = values.OTHER_reward + 1; // assuming that rest option's reward is 1
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
 } else { // or perhaps, participant did not make a choice in time --> display feedback
 values.choice_not_made = values.choice_not_made + 1;
 values.obtained_reward = 0;
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else {
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
 }
]
/ onTrialend = [
 // update the rewards after surveypage.box_clicking (e.g., if participant chose the effortful option)
 if (trial.BoxClick_Trial.response=="effort_option") { // if subj chose the effortful option
 values.choice_made = values.choice_made + 1;
 if (values.box_clicking_boxesChecked >= values.effortBoxes) { // succeeded in the box clicking task
 values.obtained_reward = values.effortCredits;
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") { // add the reward to YOU_reward
 values.YOU_reward = values.YOU_reward + values.effortCredits;
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else { // add the reward to OTHER_reward
 values.OTHER_reward = values.OTHER_reward + values.effortCredits;
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
 } else {
 values.obtained_reward = 0;
 //if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 //} else {
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 //}
 }
 }
]
</trial>

// show the obtained number of credits after each trial
// CURRENTLY NOT USED
<trial Show_Feedback>
/timeout = 2000
/branch = [
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else { // "OTHER"
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
]
</trial>

<text box_clicking_feedback_YOU>
/items = ("<%values.trialType%> earned <%values.obtained_reward%> credits")
/txcolor = red//(0, 0, 0)
/fontstyle = ("Arial", 2%, false, false, false, false, 5, 0)
/position = (50%, 40%)
</text>

<trial show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU>
/stimulusTimes = [0=box_clicking_feedback_YOU]
/timeout = 2000 // displays the message for 2 seconds
</trial>

<text box_clicking_feedback_OTHER>
/items = ("<%values.trialType%> earned <%values.obtained_reward%> credits")
/txcolor = blue//(0, 0, 0)
/fontstyle = ("Arial", 2%, false, false, false, false, 5, 0)
/position = (50%, 40%)
</text>

<trial show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER>
/stimulusTimes = [0=box_clicking_feedback_OTHER]
/timeout = 2000 // displays the message for 2 seconds
</trial>

// Block containing one full trial -- BoxClick_Trial --> Show_Feedback
//<block Full_Trial>
/// trials = [1=BoxClick_Trial; 2=Show_Feedback]
//</block>

//<page feedback>
//^<%values.trialType%>
//^<%values.obtained_reward%>
//</page>

// Stores the order of the 24 trial types -- YOU or OTHER
<list trialTypeList>
/ selectionMode = sequence
</list>

// Stores the order in which the effort/reward pairs will be presented in the 12 YOU trials
<list YOU_eff_rewList>
/ selectionMode = sequence
</list>

// Stores the order in which the effort/reward pairs will be presented in the 12 OTHER trials
<list OTHER_eff_rewList>
/ selectionMode = sequence
</list>

<text effort_option>
/ items = ("<%values.effortCredits%> credits for <%values.effortBoxes%> boxes")
/ hPosition = values.effortX
/ vPosition = 40%
/ fontStyle = ("arial", 12pt)
/ size = (15%, 10%)
/ vJustify = center
/ txBGColor = lightGray
</text>

<text rest_option>
/ items = ("1 credit for Rest")
/ hPosition = values.restX
/ vPosition = 40%
/ fontStyle = ("arial", 12pt)
/ size = (15%, 10%)
/ vJustify = center
/ txBGColor = lightGray
</text>

<text center_label>
/ items = ("<%values.trialType%>") // this is the label that should be used in the exp!
// items = ("<%values.eff_rew%>") // testing the list selection!
/ position = (50%, 30%)
/ txColor = values.c_colorname
/ fontStyle = ("arial", 16pt, true)
</text>

<list trialType>
/ items = ("YOU", "OTHER")
/ poolsize = parameters.num_trials
/ selectionmode = random
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

// This list contains all effort (4) x reward (3) = 12 combinations for the YOU trials
// It will be used to to sample --once-- all the 12 combinations
<list eff_rew_YOU>
/ items = ("e1_r1", "e1_r2", "e1_r3", "e2_r1", "e2_r2", "e2_r3", "e3_r1", "e3_r2", "e3_r3", "e4_r1", "e4_r2", "e4_r3")
/ poolsize = parameters.num_trials/2
/ replace = false
/ selectionmode = random
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

// Likewise for the OTHER trials
<list eff_rew_OTHER>
/ items = ("e1_r1", "e1_r2", "e1_r3", "e2_r1", "e2_r2", "e2_r3", "e3_r1", "e3_r2", "e3_r3", "e4_r1", "e4_r2", "e4_r3")
/ poolsize = parameters.num_trials/2
/ replace = false
/ selectionmode = random
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

<list x>
/ items = (35%, 65%)
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

RE: IQScript, /branch, return inside /onTrialEnd and providing feedback after or ???

EN — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 01:12:20 GMT

+x[quote]

[b]Dave - 7/7/2025[/b]
+x[quote]

[b]EN - 7/6/2025[/b]
+x[quote]

[b]Dave - 7/6/2025[/b]
+x[quote]

[b]Dave - 7/6/2025[/b]
+x[quote]

[b]EN - 7/6/2025[/b]
+x[quote]

[b]Dave - 7/6/2025[/b]
+x[quote]

[b]EN - 7/6/2025[/b]
Hello:

I wanted to provide feedback to participants immediately after a <trial> that has a /branch section within it. The /branch will--depending on the participant's response--call a <surveypage> using 'return' (I copied the current code below in case it's helpful -- the <trial> in case is BoxClick_Trial).

To display the feedback after each <trial>, I thought about using additional 'return' commands inside the /onTrialEnd section. The idea was to use 'return' to call another <trial> (after updating some global variables) whose only job is to display a customized message on the screen. However, using 'return' inside the /onTrialEnd section does not seem to be allowed.

After some fiddling, I decided to move portions of the code that were originally inside /onTrialEnd to inside the /branch, right after the conditional call to <surveypage>. However, and somehow expectedly in hindsight, because the flow of the program returns directly to /onTrialEnd after it is deviated by the /branch, I still have not found a way to display the feedback if the <surveypage> is called (if <surveypage> is _not called_, feedbacks are properly displayed by the code following the 'return' command in the /branch).

I guess this is a fairly common case but I wonder what would be the best way to handle it?
Any help would be greatly appreciated!
With very best wishes,
EN
--
// Global variables -- some of these variables should be re-defined in emot_induction.iqx

<values>
//Thresholds specified by the procedure defined in calibration_time_boxcount.iqx
// Here defined only for testing purposes
/ easyThresh50 = 8 //The number of boxes at the 50% level
/ mediumThresh65 = 10 //The number of boxes at the 65% level
/ mediumThresh80 = 13 //The number of boxes at the 80% level
/ hardThresh95 = 15 //The number of boxes at the 95% level

// From here -- may have to be specified globally to be used in other places
// Total number of boxes clicked in box_clicking
/ box_clicking_boxesChecked = -1
/ YOU_reward = 0
/ OTHER_reward = 0
/ choice_made = 0
/ choice_not_made = 0
/ obtained_reward = 0

// From here -- specific to social_effort_box_click_task.iqx
//Color of trial type -- in fact, red (YOU) or blue (OTHER)
/ c_colorname = black
//Stores the selected combination of effort and reward -- e.g., e1_r1 means the lowest effort and the lowest reward
/ eff_rew = "e0_r0" // for filling purposes, this condition DOES NOT EXIST

// Position of the two choices
/ effortX = 0%
/ restX = 0%

// Trial type
/ trialType = null

// Strings to be displayed at every trial
/ centerLabel = null // will be either YOU or OTHER
/ effortCredits = 0
/ effortBoxes = 0

</values>

<parameters> //
//These are the rewards (fixed for all participants)
/ low_pay = 2 //Low reward
/ medium_pay = 6 //Medium reward
/ high_pay = 10 //High reward

/ num_trials = 24 // total number of trials
</parameters>

// data to be saved in summary file -- CONSIDER ADDING ITEMS in the future
<summarydata>
/columns = (script.startdate, script.starttime, script.subjectid, script.groupid,
 script.elapsedtime, computer.platform, values.YOU_reward, values.OTHER_reward,
 values.choice_made, values.choice_not_made)
</summarydata>

// data to be saved in raw data file
<data>
/columns = (date, time, group, subject, session, build, blockNum, trialNum, blockCode, trialCode,
 pretrialPause, posttrialPause, response, correct, latency,
 stimulusitem, stimulusnumber, stimulusonset,
 stimulusitem, stimulusnumber, stimulusonset,
 stimulusitem, stimulusnumber, stimulusonset,
 values.box_clicking_boxesChecked, values.effortBoxes, values.effortCredits, values.obtained_reward, values.effortX)
</data>

// These checkboxes will also be defined in emot_induction.iqx -- must comment them when transferring!
<checkboxes row1>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("1", "2", "3", "4", "5", "6", "7", "8", "9", "10")
/ optionvalues = ("1", "2", "3", "4","5", "6", "7", "8", "9", "10")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row2>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("11", "12", "13", "14", "15", "16", "17", "18", "19", "20")
/ optionvalues = ("11", "12", "13", "14","15", "16", "17", "18", "19", "20")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row3>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("21", "22", "23", "24", "25", "26", "27", "28", "29", "30")
/ optionvalues = ("21", "22", "23", "24","25", "26", "27", "28", "29", "30")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row4>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("31", "32", "33", "34", "35", "36", "37", "38", "39", "40")
/ optionvalues = ("31", "32", "33", "34","35", "36", "37", "38", "39", "40")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row5>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("41", "42", "43", "44", "45", "46", "47", "48", "49", "50")
/ optionvalues = ("41", "42", "43", "44","45", "46", "47", "48", "49", "50")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<surveypage box_clicking>
/ onTrialBegin = [
 values.box_clicking_boxesChecked = -1
]
/ onTrialEnd = [
values.box_clicking_boxesChecked = checkboxes.row1.selectedCount + checkboxes.row2.selectedCount + checkboxes.row3.selectedCount + checkboxes.row4.selectedCount + checkboxes.row5.selectedCount;
]
/caption = "You must click at least <%values.effortBoxes%> boxes"
/questions = [1-5=sequence(row1, row2, row3, row4, row5)]
/ itemfontstyle = ("Arial", 2.00%, false, false, false, false, 5, 1)
/ itemspacing = 0.0%
/ showpagenumbers = false
/ showbackbutton = false
/ showquestionnumbers = false
/ responsefontstyle = ("Arial", 2.0%, false, false, false, false, 5, 1)
/ timeout = 10000 // 10 seconds
/ showNextButton = false
</surveypage>

<block SocialEffort_Block>
/ onBlockBegin = [
 // Randomized trial type order -- 24 trials
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //1
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //2
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //3
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //4
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //5
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //6
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //7
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //8
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //9
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //10
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //11
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //12
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //13
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //14
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //15
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //16
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //17
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //18
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //19
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //20
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //21
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //22
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //23
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //24
 // Randomized YOU effort-reward 12 pairs
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //1
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //2
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //3
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //4
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //5
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //6
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //7
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //8
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //9
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //10
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //11
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //12
 // Randomized OTHER effort-reward 12 pairs
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //1
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //2
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //3
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //4
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //5
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //6
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //7
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //8
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //9
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //10
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //11
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //12
]
// trials = [1-parameters.num_trials = BoxClick_Trial]
/ trials = [1-24 = BoxClick_Trial] // ATTENTION: defining the number of trials manually....

// trials = [1-24 = Full_Trial] // ATTENTION: defining the number of trials manually....

</block>

<trial BoxClick_Trial>
/ onTrialBegin = [
// pick random postion for effort_option
values.effortX = list.x.nextValue;
// pick position for rest_option
values.restX = list.x.nextValue;
// set trial type
 values.trialType = list.trialTypeList.nextValue;
// set center label according to trial type
if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 values.c_colorname = red;
 values.eff_rew = list.YOU_eff_rewList.nextValue;
} else { // OTHER
 values.c_colorname = blue;
 values.eff_rew = list.OTHER_eff_rewList.nextValue;
}
 // set winnings and effort according to the value in eff_rew
 if (values.eff_rew == "e1_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.easyThresh50;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e1_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.easyThresh50;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e1_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.easyThresh50;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e2_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh65;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e2_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh65;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e2_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh65;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e3_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh80;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e3_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh80;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e3_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh80;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e4_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.hardThresh95;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e4_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.hardThresh95;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e4_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.hardThresh95;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 }
 // Reset the variable box_clicking_boxesChecked
 values.box_clicking_boxesChecked = -1;
]
/ stimulusframes = [1=effort_option, rest_option, center_label]
/ inputdevice = mouse
/ validresponse = (effort_option, rest_option)
/ timeout = 4000 // participant must make a choice in 4000 ms

/ branch = [
 if (trial.BoxClick_Trial.response=="effort_option") { // if subj chose the effortful option
 // run the clicking box survey
 return surveyPage.box_clicking;
 // otherwise, update the rewards (rest option) --> display feedback
 } else if (trial.BoxClick_Trial.response=="rest_option"){ // chose the rest option -- assuming that rest option's reward is 1
 values.choice_made = values.choice_made + 1;
 values.obtained_reward = 1;
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 values.YOU_reward = values.YOU_reward + 1; // assuming that rest option's reward is 1
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else {
 values.OTHER_reward = values.OTHER_reward + 1; // assuming that rest option's reward is 1
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
 } else { // or perhaps, participant did not make a choice in time --> display feedback
 values.choice_not_made = values.choice_not_made + 1;
 values.obtained_reward = 0;
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else {
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
 }
]
/ onTrialend = [
 // update the rewards after surveypage.box_clicking (e.g., if participant chose the effortful option)
 if (trial.BoxClick_Trial.response=="effort_option") { // if subj chose the effortful option
 values.choice_made = values.choice_made + 1;
 if (values.box_clicking_boxesChecked >= values.effortBoxes) { // succeeded in the box clicking task
 values.obtained_reward = values.effortCredits;
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") { // add the reward to YOU_reward
 values.YOU_reward = values.YOU_reward + values.effortCredits;
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else { // add the reward to OTHER_reward
 values.OTHER_reward = values.OTHER_reward + values.effortCredits;
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
 } else {
 values.obtained_reward = 0;
 //if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 //} else {
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 //}
 }
 }
]
</trial>

// show the obtained number of credits after each trial
// CURRENTLY NOT USED
<trial Show_Feedback>
/timeout = 2000
/branch = [
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else { // "OTHER"
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
]
</trial>

<text box_clicking_feedback_YOU>
/items = ("<%values.trialType%> earned <%values.obtained_reward%> credits")
/txcolor = red//(0, 0, 0)
/fontstyle = ("Arial", 2%, false, false, false, false, 5, 0)
/position = (50%, 40%)
</text>

<trial show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU>
/stimulusTimes = [0=box_clicking_feedback_YOU]
/timeout = 2000 // displays the message for 2 seconds
</trial>

<text box_clicking_feedback_OTHER>
/items = ("<%values.trialType%> earned <%values.obtained_reward%> credits")
/txcolor = blue//(0, 0, 0)
/fontstyle = ("Arial", 2%, false, false, false, false, 5, 0)
/position = (50%, 40%)
</text>

<trial show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER>
/stimulusTimes = [0=box_clicking_feedback_OTHER]
/timeout = 2000 // displays the message for 2 seconds
</trial>

// Block containing one full trial -- BoxClick_Trial --> Show_Feedback
//<block Full_Trial>
/// trials = [1=BoxClick_Trial; 2=Show_Feedback]
//</block>

//<page feedback>
//^<%values.trialType%>
//^<%values.obtained_reward%>
//</page>

// Stores the order of the 24 trial types -- YOU or OTHER
<list trialTypeList>
/ selectionMode = sequence
</list>

// Stores the order in which the effort/reward pairs will be presented in the 12 YOU trials
<list YOU_eff_rewList>
/ selectionMode = sequence
</list>

// Stores the order in which the effort/reward pairs will be presented in the 12 OTHER trials
<list OTHER_eff_rewList>
/ selectionMode = sequence
</list>

<text effort_option>
/ items = ("<%values.effortCredits%> credits for <%values.effortBoxes%> boxes")
/ hPosition = values.effortX
/ vPosition = 40%
/ fontStyle = ("arial", 12pt)
/ size = (15%, 10%)
/ vJustify = center
/ txBGColor = lightGray
</text>

<text rest_option>
/ items = ("1 credit for Rest")
/ hPosition = values.restX
/ vPosition = 40%
/ fontStyle = ("arial", 12pt)
/ size = (15%, 10%)
/ vJustify = center
/ txBGColor = lightGray
</text>

<text center_label>
/ items = ("<%values.trialType%>") // this is the label that should be used in the exp!
// items = ("<%values.eff_rew%>") // testing the list selection!
/ position = (50%, 30%)
/ txColor = values.c_colorname
/ fontStyle = ("arial", 16pt, true)
</text>

<list trialType>
/ items = ("YOU", "OTHER")
/ poolsize = parameters.num_trials
/ selectionmode = random
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

// This list contains all effort (4) x reward (3) = 12 combinations for the YOU trials
// It will be used to to sample --once-- all the 12 combinations
<list eff_rew_YOU>
/ items = ("e1_r1", "e1_r2", "e1_r3", "e2_r1", "e2_r2", "e2_r3", "e3_r1", "e3_r2", "e3_r3", "e4_r1", "e4_r2", "e4_r3")
/ poolsize = parameters.num_trials/2
/ replace = false
/ selectionmode = random
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

// Likewise for the OTHER trials
<list eff_rew_OTHER>
/ items = ("e1_r1", "e1_r2", "e1_r3", "e2_r1", "e2_r2", "e2_r3", "e3_r1", "e3_r2", "e3_r3", "e4_r1", "e4_r2", "e4_r3")
/ poolsize = parameters.num_trials/2
/ replace = false
/ selectionmode = random
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

<list x>
/ items = (35%, 65%)
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

[/quote]

The /branch obviously ought to be in the <surveyPage>. Once the <trial> has /branches to the <surveypage>, the <trial> is over. It cannot then somehow /branch to yet another thing after the <surveypage>. The <surveypage> has to /branch.

Moving things around between /onTrialEnd and /barnch will not change a thing about this. /onTrialEnd attributes are for executing logic (performing calculations, etc.) at the end of a trial. They are executed in the order given top to bottom. You cannot "return" a trial from /onTrialEnd, that is not what it's for.
/branch is for dynamically deciding where to go next after the trial.
[/quote]

Thanks, Dave!

However, if I want to provide feedback _after_ participants have completed the <surveypage> AND customize the feedback according to the responses given by participants in the <surveypage>, I thought I would have to add that "logic" in the /onTrialEnd of the <surveypage>, which would not work either, no? I don't see how using /branch inside the <surveypage> could help...

Could you provide an example where (1) responses are given to a <surveypage> , and (2) feedback is displayed on screen depending on the responses given in the <surveypage> (in my code, that is in effect the number of boxes that were clicked by the participant)?

Thanks in advance!
EN
[/quote]

Why do you think that would not wokr? It's really not complicated. Of course you can have /onTrialEnd logic in a <surveyPage> that counts up how many boxes where check and then display that in a feedback trial after.
[/quote]

[code]<values>
/ feedBackMessage = null
</values>

<block taskBlock>
/ trials = [1-4 = choiceTrial]
</block>

<trial choiceTrial>
/ stimulusFrames = [1=clearScreen,doSomething, doNothing]
/ inputDevice = mouse
/ validResponse = (doSomething,doNothing)
/ branch = [
 if (trial.choiceTrial.response == "doNothing") {
 values.feedBackMessage = "You did nothing.";
 return trial.feedBackTrial;
 } else {
 return surveyPage.checkSomeBoxes;
 }
]
</trial>

<trial feedBackTrial>
/ stimulusFrames = [1=clearScreen, feedBackText]
/ validResponse = (0)
/ trialDuration = 2000
</trial>

<surveypage checkSomeBoxes>
/ questions = [1=checkMe]
/ showNextButton = false
/ showPageNumbers = false
/ showQuestionNumbers = false
/ timeout = 5000
/ branch = [
 values.feedBackMessage = concat("Number of boxes checked: ", checkBoxes.checkMe.selectedCount);
 return trial.feedBackTrial;
]
</surveypage>

<checkBoxes checkMe>
/ options = ("01", "02", "03", "04", "05", "06", "07", "08", "09", "10")
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<text doSomething>
/ items = ("I want to check some boxes.")
/ position = (25%, 65%)
</text>

<text doNothing>
/ items = ("I'd rather do nothing.")
/ position = (75%, 65%)
</text>

<text feedBackText>
/ items = ("<%values.feedBackMessage%>")
</text>

[/code]
[/quote]

Thanks, Dave!

It is now very clear.

One last question on this topic: am I correct to assume that /onTrialEnd is not executed if a 'return' inside a /branch is called?

Best,
EN
[/quote]

No, you are not correct. /onTrialEnd attributes are executed top to bottom in the order given. This happens before any /branch attributes are executed.

They are different attributes serving different purposes.
[/quote]

Thanks, Dave!
I'm glad I asked, now it is very clear.
Best wishes,
EN

RE: IQScript, /branch, return inside /onTrialEnd and providing feedback after or ???

Dave — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 00:50:24 GMT

+x[quote]

[b]EN - 7/6/2025[/b]
+x[quote]

[b]Dave - 7/6/2025[/b]
+x[quote]

[b]Dave - 7/6/2025[/b]
+x[quote]

[b]EN - 7/6/2025[/b]
+x[quote]

[b]Dave - 7/6/2025[/b]
+x[quote]

[b]EN - 7/6/2025[/b]
Hello:

I wanted to provide feedback to participants immediately after a <trial> that has a /branch section within it. The /branch will--depending on the participant's response--call a <surveypage> using 'return' (I copied the current code below in case it's helpful -- the <trial> in case is BoxClick_Trial).

To display the feedback after each <trial>, I thought about using additional 'return' commands inside the /onTrialEnd section. The idea was to use 'return' to call another <trial> (after updating some global variables) whose only job is to display a customized message on the screen. However, using 'return' inside the /onTrialEnd section does not seem to be allowed.

After some fiddling, I decided to move portions of the code that were originally inside /onTrialEnd to inside the /branch, right after the conditional call to <surveypage>. However, and somehow expectedly in hindsight, because the flow of the program returns directly to /onTrialEnd after it is deviated by the /branch, I still have not found a way to display the feedback if the <surveypage> is called (if <surveypage> is _not called_, feedbacks are properly displayed by the code following the 'return' command in the /branch).

I guess this is a fairly common case but I wonder what would be the best way to handle it?
Any help would be greatly appreciated!
With very best wishes,
EN
--
// Global variables -- some of these variables should be re-defined in emot_induction.iqx

<values>
//Thresholds specified by the procedure defined in calibration_time_boxcount.iqx
// Here defined only for testing purposes
/ easyThresh50 = 8 //The number of boxes at the 50% level
/ mediumThresh65 = 10 //The number of boxes at the 65% level
/ mediumThresh80 = 13 //The number of boxes at the 80% level
/ hardThresh95 = 15 //The number of boxes at the 95% level

// From here -- may have to be specified globally to be used in other places
// Total number of boxes clicked in box_clicking
/ box_clicking_boxesChecked = -1
/ YOU_reward = 0
/ OTHER_reward = 0
/ choice_made = 0
/ choice_not_made = 0
/ obtained_reward = 0

// From here -- specific to social_effort_box_click_task.iqx
//Color of trial type -- in fact, red (YOU) or blue (OTHER)
/ c_colorname = black
//Stores the selected combination of effort and reward -- e.g., e1_r1 means the lowest effort and the lowest reward
/ eff_rew = "e0_r0" // for filling purposes, this condition DOES NOT EXIST

// Position of the two choices
/ effortX = 0%
/ restX = 0%

// Trial type
/ trialType = null

// Strings to be displayed at every trial
/ centerLabel = null // will be either YOU or OTHER
/ effortCredits = 0
/ effortBoxes = 0

</values>

<parameters> //
//These are the rewards (fixed for all participants)
/ low_pay = 2 //Low reward
/ medium_pay = 6 //Medium reward
/ high_pay = 10 //High reward

/ num_trials = 24 // total number of trials
</parameters>

// data to be saved in summary file -- CONSIDER ADDING ITEMS in the future
<summarydata>
/columns = (script.startdate, script.starttime, script.subjectid, script.groupid,
 script.elapsedtime, computer.platform, values.YOU_reward, values.OTHER_reward,
 values.choice_made, values.choice_not_made)
</summarydata>

// data to be saved in raw data file
<data>
/columns = (date, time, group, subject, session, build, blockNum, trialNum, blockCode, trialCode,
 pretrialPause, posttrialPause, response, correct, latency,
 stimulusitem, stimulusnumber, stimulusonset,
 stimulusitem, stimulusnumber, stimulusonset,
 stimulusitem, stimulusnumber, stimulusonset,
 values.box_clicking_boxesChecked, values.effortBoxes, values.effortCredits, values.obtained_reward, values.effortX)
</data>

// These checkboxes will also be defined in emot_induction.iqx -- must comment them when transferring!
<checkboxes row1>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("1", "2", "3", "4", "5", "6", "7", "8", "9", "10")
/ optionvalues = ("1", "2", "3", "4","5", "6", "7", "8", "9", "10")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row2>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("11", "12", "13", "14", "15", "16", "17", "18", "19", "20")
/ optionvalues = ("11", "12", "13", "14","15", "16", "17", "18", "19", "20")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row3>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("21", "22", "23", "24", "25", "26", "27", "28", "29", "30")
/ optionvalues = ("21", "22", "23", "24","25", "26", "27", "28", "29", "30")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row4>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("31", "32", "33", "34", "35", "36", "37", "38", "39", "40")
/ optionvalues = ("31", "32", "33", "34","35", "36", "37", "38", "39", "40")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row5>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("41", "42", "43", "44", "45", "46", "47", "48", "49", "50")
/ optionvalues = ("41", "42", "43", "44","45", "46", "47", "48", "49", "50")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<surveypage box_clicking>
/ onTrialBegin = [
 values.box_clicking_boxesChecked = -1
]
/ onTrialEnd = [
values.box_clicking_boxesChecked = checkboxes.row1.selectedCount + checkboxes.row2.selectedCount + checkboxes.row3.selectedCount + checkboxes.row4.selectedCount + checkboxes.row5.selectedCount;
]
/caption = "You must click at least <%values.effortBoxes%> boxes"
/questions = [1-5=sequence(row1, row2, row3, row4, row5)]
/ itemfontstyle = ("Arial", 2.00%, false, false, false, false, 5, 1)
/ itemspacing = 0.0%
/ showpagenumbers = false
/ showbackbutton = false
/ showquestionnumbers = false
/ responsefontstyle = ("Arial", 2.0%, false, false, false, false, 5, 1)
/ timeout = 10000 // 10 seconds
/ showNextButton = false
</surveypage>

<block SocialEffort_Block>
/ onBlockBegin = [
 // Randomized trial type order -- 24 trials
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //1
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //2
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //3
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //4
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //5
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //6
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //7
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //8
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //9
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //10
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //11
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //12
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //13
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //14
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //15
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //16
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //17
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //18
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //19
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //20
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //21
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //22
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //23
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //24
 // Randomized YOU effort-reward 12 pairs
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //1
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //2
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //3
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //4
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //5
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //6
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //7
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //8
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //9
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //10
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //11
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //12
 // Randomized OTHER effort-reward 12 pairs
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //1
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //2
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //3
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //4
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //5
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //6
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //7
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //8
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //9
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //10
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //11
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //12
]
// trials = [1-parameters.num_trials = BoxClick_Trial]
/ trials = [1-24 = BoxClick_Trial] // ATTENTION: defining the number of trials manually....

// trials = [1-24 = Full_Trial] // ATTENTION: defining the number of trials manually....

</block>

<trial BoxClick_Trial>
/ onTrialBegin = [
// pick random postion for effort_option
values.effortX = list.x.nextValue;
// pick position for rest_option
values.restX = list.x.nextValue;
// set trial type
 values.trialType = list.trialTypeList.nextValue;
// set center label according to trial type
if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 values.c_colorname = red;
 values.eff_rew = list.YOU_eff_rewList.nextValue;
} else { // OTHER
 values.c_colorname = blue;
 values.eff_rew = list.OTHER_eff_rewList.nextValue;
}
 // set winnings and effort according to the value in eff_rew
 if (values.eff_rew == "e1_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.easyThresh50;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e1_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.easyThresh50;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e1_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.easyThresh50;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e2_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh65;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e2_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh65;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e2_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh65;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e3_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh80;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e3_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh80;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e3_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh80;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e4_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.hardThresh95;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e4_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.hardThresh95;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e4_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.hardThresh95;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 }
 // Reset the variable box_clicking_boxesChecked
 values.box_clicking_boxesChecked = -1;
]
/ stimulusframes = [1=effort_option, rest_option, center_label]
/ inputdevice = mouse
/ validresponse = (effort_option, rest_option)
/ timeout = 4000 // participant must make a choice in 4000 ms

/ branch = [
 if (trial.BoxClick_Trial.response=="effort_option") { // if subj chose the effortful option
 // run the clicking box survey
 return surveyPage.box_clicking;
 // otherwise, update the rewards (rest option) --> display feedback
 } else if (trial.BoxClick_Trial.response=="rest_option"){ // chose the rest option -- assuming that rest option's reward is 1
 values.choice_made = values.choice_made + 1;
 values.obtained_reward = 1;
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 values.YOU_reward = values.YOU_reward + 1; // assuming that rest option's reward is 1
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else {
 values.OTHER_reward = values.OTHER_reward + 1; // assuming that rest option's reward is 1
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
 } else { // or perhaps, participant did not make a choice in time --> display feedback
 values.choice_not_made = values.choice_not_made + 1;
 values.obtained_reward = 0;
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else {
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
 }
]
/ onTrialend = [
 // update the rewards after surveypage.box_clicking (e.g., if participant chose the effortful option)
 if (trial.BoxClick_Trial.response=="effort_option") { // if subj chose the effortful option
 values.choice_made = values.choice_made + 1;
 if (values.box_clicking_boxesChecked >= values.effortBoxes) { // succeeded in the box clicking task
 values.obtained_reward = values.effortCredits;
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") { // add the reward to YOU_reward
 values.YOU_reward = values.YOU_reward + values.effortCredits;
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else { // add the reward to OTHER_reward
 values.OTHER_reward = values.OTHER_reward + values.effortCredits;
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
 } else {
 values.obtained_reward = 0;
 //if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 //} else {
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 //}
 }
 }
]
</trial>

// show the obtained number of credits after each trial
// CURRENTLY NOT USED
<trial Show_Feedback>
/timeout = 2000
/branch = [
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else { // "OTHER"
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
]
</trial>

<text box_clicking_feedback_YOU>
/items = ("<%values.trialType%> earned <%values.obtained_reward%> credits")
/txcolor = red//(0, 0, 0)
/fontstyle = ("Arial", 2%, false, false, false, false, 5, 0)
/position = (50%, 40%)
</text>

<trial show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU>
/stimulusTimes = [0=box_clicking_feedback_YOU]
/timeout = 2000 // displays the message for 2 seconds
</trial>

<text box_clicking_feedback_OTHER>
/items = ("<%values.trialType%> earned <%values.obtained_reward%> credits")
/txcolor = blue//(0, 0, 0)
/fontstyle = ("Arial", 2%, false, false, false, false, 5, 0)
/position = (50%, 40%)
</text>

<trial show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER>
/stimulusTimes = [0=box_clicking_feedback_OTHER]
/timeout = 2000 // displays the message for 2 seconds
</trial>

// Block containing one full trial -- BoxClick_Trial --> Show_Feedback
//<block Full_Trial>
/// trials = [1=BoxClick_Trial; 2=Show_Feedback]
//</block>

//<page feedback>
//^<%values.trialType%>
//^<%values.obtained_reward%>
//</page>

// Stores the order of the 24 trial types -- YOU or OTHER
<list trialTypeList>
/ selectionMode = sequence
</list>

// Stores the order in which the effort/reward pairs will be presented in the 12 YOU trials
<list YOU_eff_rewList>
/ selectionMode = sequence
</list>

// Stores the order in which the effort/reward pairs will be presented in the 12 OTHER trials
<list OTHER_eff_rewList>
/ selectionMode = sequence
</list>

<text effort_option>
/ items = ("<%values.effortCredits%> credits for <%values.effortBoxes%> boxes")
/ hPosition = values.effortX
/ vPosition = 40%
/ fontStyle = ("arial", 12pt)
/ size = (15%, 10%)
/ vJustify = center
/ txBGColor = lightGray
</text>

<text rest_option>
/ items = ("1 credit for Rest")
/ hPosition = values.restX
/ vPosition = 40%
/ fontStyle = ("arial", 12pt)
/ size = (15%, 10%)
/ vJustify = center
/ txBGColor = lightGray
</text>

<text center_label>
/ items = ("<%values.trialType%>") // this is the label that should be used in the exp!
// items = ("<%values.eff_rew%>") // testing the list selection!
/ position = (50%, 30%)
/ txColor = values.c_colorname
/ fontStyle = ("arial", 16pt, true)
</text>

<list trialType>
/ items = ("YOU", "OTHER")
/ poolsize = parameters.num_trials
/ selectionmode = random
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

// This list contains all effort (4) x reward (3) = 12 combinations for the YOU trials
// It will be used to to sample --once-- all the 12 combinations
<list eff_rew_YOU>
/ items = ("e1_r1", "e1_r2", "e1_r3", "e2_r1", "e2_r2", "e2_r3", "e3_r1", "e3_r2", "e3_r3", "e4_r1", "e4_r2", "e4_r3")
/ poolsize = parameters.num_trials/2
/ replace = false
/ selectionmode = random
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

// Likewise for the OTHER trials
<list eff_rew_OTHER>
/ items = ("e1_r1", "e1_r2", "e1_r3", "e2_r1", "e2_r2", "e2_r3", "e3_r1", "e3_r2", "e3_r3", "e4_r1", "e4_r2", "e4_r3")
/ poolsize = parameters.num_trials/2
/ replace = false
/ selectionmode = random
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

<list x>
/ items = (35%, 65%)
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

[/quote]

The /branch obviously ought to be in the <surveyPage>. Once the <trial> has /branches to the <surveypage>, the <trial> is over. It cannot then somehow /branch to yet another thing after the <surveypage>. The <surveypage> has to /branch.

Moving things around between /onTrialEnd and /barnch will not change a thing about this. /onTrialEnd attributes are for executing logic (performing calculations, etc.) at the end of a trial. They are executed in the order given top to bottom. You cannot "return" a trial from /onTrialEnd, that is not what it's for.
/branch is for dynamically deciding where to go next after the trial.
[/quote]

Thanks, Dave!

However, if I want to provide feedback _after_ participants have completed the <surveypage> AND customize the feedback according to the responses given by participants in the <surveypage>, I thought I would have to add that "logic" in the /onTrialEnd of the <surveypage>, which would not work either, no? I don't see how using /branch inside the <surveypage> could help...

Could you provide an example where (1) responses are given to a <surveypage> , and (2) feedback is displayed on screen depending on the responses given in the <surveypage> (in my code, that is in effect the number of boxes that were clicked by the participant)?

Thanks in advance!
EN
[/quote]

Why do you think that would not wokr? It's really not complicated. Of course you can have /onTrialEnd logic in a <surveyPage> that counts up how many boxes where check and then display that in a feedback trial after.
[/quote]

[code]<values>
/ feedBackMessage = null
</values>

<block taskBlock>
/ trials = [1-4 = choiceTrial]
</block>

<trial choiceTrial>
/ stimulusFrames = [1=clearScreen,doSomething, doNothing]
/ inputDevice = mouse
/ validResponse = (doSomething,doNothing)
/ branch = [
 if (trial.choiceTrial.response == "doNothing") {
 values.feedBackMessage = "You did nothing.";
 return trial.feedBackTrial;
 } else {
 return surveyPage.checkSomeBoxes;
 }
]
</trial>

<trial feedBackTrial>
/ stimulusFrames = [1=clearScreen, feedBackText]
/ validResponse = (0)
/ trialDuration = 2000
</trial>

<surveypage checkSomeBoxes>
/ questions = [1=checkMe]
/ showNextButton = false
/ showPageNumbers = false
/ showQuestionNumbers = false
/ timeout = 5000
/ branch = [
 values.feedBackMessage = concat("Number of boxes checked: ", checkBoxes.checkMe.selectedCount);
 return trial.feedBackTrial;
]
</surveypage>

<checkBoxes checkMe>
/ options = ("01", "02", "03", "04", "05", "06", "07", "08", "09", "10")
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<text doSomething>
/ items = ("I want to check some boxes.")
/ position = (25%, 65%)
</text>

<text doNothing>
/ items = ("I'd rather do nothing.")
/ position = (75%, 65%)
</text>

<text feedBackText>
/ items = ("<%values.feedBackMessage%>")
</text>

[/code]
[/quote]

Thanks, Dave!

It is now very clear.

One last question on this topic: am I correct to assume that /onTrialEnd is not executed if a 'return' inside a /branch is called?

Best,
EN
[/quote]

No, you are not correct. /onTrialEnd attributes are executed top to bottom in the order given. This happens before any /branch attributes are executed.

They are different attributes serving different purposes.

RE: IQScript, /branch, return inside /onTrialEnd and providing feedback after or ???

EN — Sun, 06 Jul 2025 23:23:25 GMT

+x[quote]

[b]Dave - 7/6/2025[/b]
+x[quote]

[b]Dave - 7/6/2025[/b]
+x[quote]

[b]EN - 7/6/2025[/b]
+x[quote]

[b]Dave - 7/6/2025[/b]
+x[quote]

[b]EN - 7/6/2025[/b]
Hello:

I wanted to provide feedback to participants immediately after a <trial> that has a /branch section within it. The /branch will--depending on the participant's response--call a <surveypage> using 'return' (I copied the current code below in case it's helpful -- the <trial> in case is BoxClick_Trial).

To display the feedback after each <trial>, I thought about using additional 'return' commands inside the /onTrialEnd section. The idea was to use 'return' to call another <trial> (after updating some global variables) whose only job is to display a customized message on the screen. However, using 'return' inside the /onTrialEnd section does not seem to be allowed.

After some fiddling, I decided to move portions of the code that were originally inside /onTrialEnd to inside the /branch, right after the conditional call to <surveypage>. However, and somehow expectedly in hindsight, because the flow of the program returns directly to /onTrialEnd after it is deviated by the /branch, I still have not found a way to display the feedback if the <surveypage> is called (if <surveypage> is _not called_, feedbacks are properly displayed by the code following the 'return' command in the /branch).

I guess this is a fairly common case but I wonder what would be the best way to handle it?
Any help would be greatly appreciated!
With very best wishes,
EN
--
// Global variables -- some of these variables should be re-defined in emot_induction.iqx

<values>
//Thresholds specified by the procedure defined in calibration_time_boxcount.iqx
// Here defined only for testing purposes
/ easyThresh50 = 8 //The number of boxes at the 50% level
/ mediumThresh65 = 10 //The number of boxes at the 65% level
/ mediumThresh80 = 13 //The number of boxes at the 80% level
/ hardThresh95 = 15 //The number of boxes at the 95% level

// From here -- may have to be specified globally to be used in other places
// Total number of boxes clicked in box_clicking
/ box_clicking_boxesChecked = -1
/ YOU_reward = 0
/ OTHER_reward = 0
/ choice_made = 0
/ choice_not_made = 0
/ obtained_reward = 0

// From here -- specific to social_effort_box_click_task.iqx
//Color of trial type -- in fact, red (YOU) or blue (OTHER)
/ c_colorname = black
//Stores the selected combination of effort and reward -- e.g., e1_r1 means the lowest effort and the lowest reward
/ eff_rew = "e0_r0" // for filling purposes, this condition DOES NOT EXIST

// Position of the two choices
/ effortX = 0%
/ restX = 0%

// Trial type
/ trialType = null

// Strings to be displayed at every trial
/ centerLabel = null // will be either YOU or OTHER
/ effortCredits = 0
/ effortBoxes = 0

</values>

<parameters> //
//These are the rewards (fixed for all participants)
/ low_pay = 2 //Low reward
/ medium_pay = 6 //Medium reward
/ high_pay = 10 //High reward

/ num_trials = 24 // total number of trials
</parameters>

// data to be saved in summary file -- CONSIDER ADDING ITEMS in the future
<summarydata>
/columns = (script.startdate, script.starttime, script.subjectid, script.groupid,
 script.elapsedtime, computer.platform, values.YOU_reward, values.OTHER_reward,
 values.choice_made, values.choice_not_made)
</summarydata>

// data to be saved in raw data file
<data>
/columns = (date, time, group, subject, session, build, blockNum, trialNum, blockCode, trialCode,
 pretrialPause, posttrialPause, response, correct, latency,
 stimulusitem, stimulusnumber, stimulusonset,
 stimulusitem, stimulusnumber, stimulusonset,
 stimulusitem, stimulusnumber, stimulusonset,
 values.box_clicking_boxesChecked, values.effortBoxes, values.effortCredits, values.obtained_reward, values.effortX)
</data>

// These checkboxes will also be defined in emot_induction.iqx -- must comment them when transferring!
<checkboxes row1>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("1", "2", "3", "4", "5", "6", "7", "8", "9", "10")
/ optionvalues = ("1", "2", "3", "4","5", "6", "7", "8", "9", "10")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row2>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("11", "12", "13", "14", "15", "16", "17", "18", "19", "20")
/ optionvalues = ("11", "12", "13", "14","15", "16", "17", "18", "19", "20")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row3>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("21", "22", "23", "24", "25", "26", "27", "28", "29", "30")
/ optionvalues = ("21", "22", "23", "24","25", "26", "27", "28", "29", "30")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row4>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("31", "32", "33", "34", "35", "36", "37", "38", "39", "40")
/ optionvalues = ("31", "32", "33", "34","35", "36", "37", "38", "39", "40")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row5>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("41", "42", "43", "44", "45", "46", "47", "48", "49", "50")
/ optionvalues = ("41", "42", "43", "44","45", "46", "47", "48", "49", "50")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<surveypage box_clicking>
/ onTrialBegin = [
 values.box_clicking_boxesChecked = -1
]
/ onTrialEnd = [
values.box_clicking_boxesChecked = checkboxes.row1.selectedCount + checkboxes.row2.selectedCount + checkboxes.row3.selectedCount + checkboxes.row4.selectedCount + checkboxes.row5.selectedCount;
]
/caption = "You must click at least <%values.effortBoxes%> boxes"
/questions = [1-5=sequence(row1, row2, row3, row4, row5)]
/ itemfontstyle = ("Arial", 2.00%, false, false, false, false, 5, 1)
/ itemspacing = 0.0%
/ showpagenumbers = false
/ showbackbutton = false
/ showquestionnumbers = false
/ responsefontstyle = ("Arial", 2.0%, false, false, false, false, 5, 1)
/ timeout = 10000 // 10 seconds
/ showNextButton = false
</surveypage>

<block SocialEffort_Block>
/ onBlockBegin = [
 // Randomized trial type order -- 24 trials
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //1
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //2
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //3
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //4
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //5
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //6
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //7
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //8
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //9
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //10
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //11
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //12
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //13
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //14
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //15
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //16
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //17
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //18
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //19
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //20
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //21
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //22
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //23
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //24
 // Randomized YOU effort-reward 12 pairs
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //1
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //2
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //3
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //4
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //5
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //6
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //7
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //8
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //9
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //10
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //11
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //12
 // Randomized OTHER effort-reward 12 pairs
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //1
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //2
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //3
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //4
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //5
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //6
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //7
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //8
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //9
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //10
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //11
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //12
]
// trials = [1-parameters.num_trials = BoxClick_Trial]
/ trials = [1-24 = BoxClick_Trial] // ATTENTION: defining the number of trials manually....

// trials = [1-24 = Full_Trial] // ATTENTION: defining the number of trials manually....

</block>

<trial BoxClick_Trial>
/ onTrialBegin = [
// pick random postion for effort_option
values.effortX = list.x.nextValue;
// pick position for rest_option
values.restX = list.x.nextValue;
// set trial type
 values.trialType = list.trialTypeList.nextValue;
// set center label according to trial type
if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 values.c_colorname = red;
 values.eff_rew = list.YOU_eff_rewList.nextValue;
} else { // OTHER
 values.c_colorname = blue;
 values.eff_rew = list.OTHER_eff_rewList.nextValue;
}
 // set winnings and effort according to the value in eff_rew
 if (values.eff_rew == "e1_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.easyThresh50;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e1_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.easyThresh50;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e1_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.easyThresh50;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e2_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh65;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e2_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh65;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e2_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh65;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e3_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh80;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e3_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh80;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e3_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh80;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e4_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.hardThresh95;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e4_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.hardThresh95;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e4_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.hardThresh95;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 }
 // Reset the variable box_clicking_boxesChecked
 values.box_clicking_boxesChecked = -1;
]
/ stimulusframes = [1=effort_option, rest_option, center_label]
/ inputdevice = mouse
/ validresponse = (effort_option, rest_option)
/ timeout = 4000 // participant must make a choice in 4000 ms

/ branch = [
 if (trial.BoxClick_Trial.response=="effort_option") { // if subj chose the effortful option
 // run the clicking box survey
 return surveyPage.box_clicking;
 // otherwise, update the rewards (rest option) --> display feedback
 } else if (trial.BoxClick_Trial.response=="rest_option"){ // chose the rest option -- assuming that rest option's reward is 1
 values.choice_made = values.choice_made + 1;
 values.obtained_reward = 1;
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 values.YOU_reward = values.YOU_reward + 1; // assuming that rest option's reward is 1
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else {
 values.OTHER_reward = values.OTHER_reward + 1; // assuming that rest option's reward is 1
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
 } else { // or perhaps, participant did not make a choice in time --> display feedback
 values.choice_not_made = values.choice_not_made + 1;
 values.obtained_reward = 0;
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else {
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
 }
]
/ onTrialend = [
 // update the rewards after surveypage.box_clicking (e.g., if participant chose the effortful option)
 if (trial.BoxClick_Trial.response=="effort_option") { // if subj chose the effortful option
 values.choice_made = values.choice_made + 1;
 if (values.box_clicking_boxesChecked >= values.effortBoxes) { // succeeded in the box clicking task
 values.obtained_reward = values.effortCredits;
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") { // add the reward to YOU_reward
 values.YOU_reward = values.YOU_reward + values.effortCredits;
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else { // add the reward to OTHER_reward
 values.OTHER_reward = values.OTHER_reward + values.effortCredits;
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
 } else {
 values.obtained_reward = 0;
 //if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 //} else {
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 //}
 }
 }
]
</trial>

// show the obtained number of credits after each trial
// CURRENTLY NOT USED
<trial Show_Feedback>
/timeout = 2000
/branch = [
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else { // "OTHER"
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
]
</trial>

<text box_clicking_feedback_YOU>
/items = ("<%values.trialType%> earned <%values.obtained_reward%> credits")
/txcolor = red//(0, 0, 0)
/fontstyle = ("Arial", 2%, false, false, false, false, 5, 0)
/position = (50%, 40%)
</text>

<trial show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU>
/stimulusTimes = [0=box_clicking_feedback_YOU]
/timeout = 2000 // displays the message for 2 seconds
</trial>

<text box_clicking_feedback_OTHER>
/items = ("<%values.trialType%> earned <%values.obtained_reward%> credits")
/txcolor = blue//(0, 0, 0)
/fontstyle = ("Arial", 2%, false, false, false, false, 5, 0)
/position = (50%, 40%)
</text>

<trial show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER>
/stimulusTimes = [0=box_clicking_feedback_OTHER]
/timeout = 2000 // displays the message for 2 seconds
</trial>

// Block containing one full trial -- BoxClick_Trial --> Show_Feedback
//<block Full_Trial>
/// trials = [1=BoxClick_Trial; 2=Show_Feedback]
//</block>

//<page feedback>
//^<%values.trialType%>
//^<%values.obtained_reward%>
//</page>

// Stores the order of the 24 trial types -- YOU or OTHER
<list trialTypeList>
/ selectionMode = sequence
</list>

// Stores the order in which the effort/reward pairs will be presented in the 12 YOU trials
<list YOU_eff_rewList>
/ selectionMode = sequence
</list>

// Stores the order in which the effort/reward pairs will be presented in the 12 OTHER trials
<list OTHER_eff_rewList>
/ selectionMode = sequence
</list>

<text effort_option>
/ items = ("<%values.effortCredits%> credits for <%values.effortBoxes%> boxes")
/ hPosition = values.effortX
/ vPosition = 40%
/ fontStyle = ("arial", 12pt)
/ size = (15%, 10%)
/ vJustify = center
/ txBGColor = lightGray
</text>

<text rest_option>
/ items = ("1 credit for Rest")
/ hPosition = values.restX
/ vPosition = 40%
/ fontStyle = ("arial", 12pt)
/ size = (15%, 10%)
/ vJustify = center
/ txBGColor = lightGray
</text>

<text center_label>
/ items = ("<%values.trialType%>") // this is the label that should be used in the exp!
// items = ("<%values.eff_rew%>") // testing the list selection!
/ position = (50%, 30%)
/ txColor = values.c_colorname
/ fontStyle = ("arial", 16pt, true)
</text>

<list trialType>
/ items = ("YOU", "OTHER")
/ poolsize = parameters.num_trials
/ selectionmode = random
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

// This list contains all effort (4) x reward (3) = 12 combinations for the YOU trials
// It will be used to to sample --once-- all the 12 combinations
<list eff_rew_YOU>
/ items = ("e1_r1", "e1_r2", "e1_r3", "e2_r1", "e2_r2", "e2_r3", "e3_r1", "e3_r2", "e3_r3", "e4_r1", "e4_r2", "e4_r3")
/ poolsize = parameters.num_trials/2
/ replace = false
/ selectionmode = random
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

// Likewise for the OTHER trials
<list eff_rew_OTHER>
/ items = ("e1_r1", "e1_r2", "e1_r3", "e2_r1", "e2_r2", "e2_r3", "e3_r1", "e3_r2", "e3_r3", "e4_r1", "e4_r2", "e4_r3")
/ poolsize = parameters.num_trials/2
/ replace = false
/ selectionmode = random
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

<list x>
/ items = (35%, 65%)
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

[/quote]

The /branch obviously ought to be in the <surveyPage>. Once the <trial> has /branches to the <surveypage>, the <trial> is over. It cannot then somehow /branch to yet another thing after the <surveypage>. The <surveypage> has to /branch.

Moving things around between /onTrialEnd and /barnch will not change a thing about this. /onTrialEnd attributes are for executing logic (performing calculations, etc.) at the end of a trial. They are executed in the order given top to bottom. You cannot "return" a trial from /onTrialEnd, that is not what it's for.
/branch is for dynamically deciding where to go next after the trial.
[/quote]

Thanks, Dave!

However, if I want to provide feedback _after_ participants have completed the <surveypage> AND customize the feedback according to the responses given by participants in the <surveypage>, I thought I would have to add that "logic" in the /onTrialEnd of the <surveypage>, which would not work either, no? I don't see how using /branch inside the <surveypage> could help...

Could you provide an example where (1) responses are given to a <surveypage> , and (2) feedback is displayed on screen depending on the responses given in the <surveypage> (in my code, that is in effect the number of boxes that were clicked by the participant)?

Thanks in advance!
EN
[/quote]

Why do you think that would not wokr? It's really not complicated. Of course you can have /onTrialEnd logic in a <surveyPage> that counts up how many boxes where check and then display that in a feedback trial after.
[/quote]

[code]<values>
/ feedBackMessage = null
</values>

<block taskBlock>
/ trials = [1-4 = choiceTrial]
</block>

<trial choiceTrial>
/ stimulusFrames = [1=clearScreen,doSomething, doNothing]
/ inputDevice = mouse
/ validResponse = (doSomething,doNothing)
/ branch = [
 if (trial.choiceTrial.response == "doNothing") {
 values.feedBackMessage = "You did nothing.";
 return trial.feedBackTrial;
 } else {
 return surveyPage.checkSomeBoxes;
 }
]
</trial>

<trial feedBackTrial>
/ stimulusFrames = [1=clearScreen, feedBackText]
/ validResponse = (0)
/ trialDuration = 2000
</trial>

<surveypage checkSomeBoxes>
/ questions = [1=checkMe]
/ showNextButton = false
/ showPageNumbers = false
/ showQuestionNumbers = false
/ timeout = 5000
/ branch = [
 values.feedBackMessage = concat("Number of boxes checked: ", checkBoxes.checkMe.selectedCount);
 return trial.feedBackTrial;
]
</surveypage>

<checkBoxes checkMe>
/ options = ("01", "02", "03", "04", "05", "06", "07", "08", "09", "10")
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<text doSomething>
/ items = ("I want to check some boxes.")
/ position = (25%, 65%)
</text>

<text doNothing>
/ items = ("I'd rather do nothing.")
/ position = (75%, 65%)
</text>

<text feedBackText>
/ items = ("<%values.feedBackMessage%>")
</text>

[/code]
[/quote]

Thanks, Dave!

It is now very clear.

One last question on this topic: am I correct to assume that /onTrialEnd is not executed if a 'return' inside a /branch is called?

Best,
EN

RE: IQScript, /branch, return inside /onTrialEnd and providing feedback after or ???

Dave — Sun, 06 Jul 2025 14:18:58 GMT

+x[quote]

[b]Dave - 7/6/2025[/b]
+x[quote]

[b]EN - 7/6/2025[/b]
+x[quote]

[b]Dave - 7/6/2025[/b]
+x[quote]

[b]EN - 7/6/2025[/b]
Hello:

I wanted to provide feedback to participants immediately after a <trial> that has a /branch section within it. The /branch will--depending on the participant's response--call a <surveypage> using 'return' (I copied the current code below in case it's helpful -- the <trial> in case is BoxClick_Trial).

To display the feedback after each <trial>, I thought about using additional 'return' commands inside the /onTrialEnd section. The idea was to use 'return' to call another <trial> (after updating some global variables) whose only job is to display a customized message on the screen. However, using 'return' inside the /onTrialEnd section does not seem to be allowed.

After some fiddling, I decided to move portions of the code that were originally inside /onTrialEnd to inside the /branch, right after the conditional call to <surveypage>. However, and somehow expectedly in hindsight, because the flow of the program returns directly to /onTrialEnd after it is deviated by the /branch, I still have not found a way to display the feedback if the <surveypage> is called (if <surveypage> is _not called_, feedbacks are properly displayed by the code following the 'return' command in the /branch).

I guess this is a fairly common case but I wonder what would be the best way to handle it?
Any help would be greatly appreciated!
With very best wishes,
EN
--
// Global variables -- some of these variables should be re-defined in emot_induction.iqx

<values>
//Thresholds specified by the procedure defined in calibration_time_boxcount.iqx
// Here defined only for testing purposes
/ easyThresh50 = 8 //The number of boxes at the 50% level
/ mediumThresh65 = 10 //The number of boxes at the 65% level
/ mediumThresh80 = 13 //The number of boxes at the 80% level
/ hardThresh95 = 15 //The number of boxes at the 95% level

// From here -- may have to be specified globally to be used in other places
// Total number of boxes clicked in box_clicking
/ box_clicking_boxesChecked = -1
/ YOU_reward = 0
/ OTHER_reward = 0
/ choice_made = 0
/ choice_not_made = 0
/ obtained_reward = 0

// From here -- specific to social_effort_box_click_task.iqx
//Color of trial type -- in fact, red (YOU) or blue (OTHER)
/ c_colorname = black
//Stores the selected combination of effort and reward -- e.g., e1_r1 means the lowest effort and the lowest reward
/ eff_rew = "e0_r0" // for filling purposes, this condition DOES NOT EXIST

// Position of the two choices
/ effortX = 0%
/ restX = 0%

// Trial type
/ trialType = null

// Strings to be displayed at every trial
/ centerLabel = null // will be either YOU or OTHER
/ effortCredits = 0
/ effortBoxes = 0

</values>

<parameters> //
//These are the rewards (fixed for all participants)
/ low_pay = 2 //Low reward
/ medium_pay = 6 //Medium reward
/ high_pay = 10 //High reward

/ num_trials = 24 // total number of trials
</parameters>

// data to be saved in summary file -- CONSIDER ADDING ITEMS in the future
<summarydata>
/columns = (script.startdate, script.starttime, script.subjectid, script.groupid,
 script.elapsedtime, computer.platform, values.YOU_reward, values.OTHER_reward,
 values.choice_made, values.choice_not_made)
</summarydata>

// data to be saved in raw data file
<data>
/columns = (date, time, group, subject, session, build, blockNum, trialNum, blockCode, trialCode,
 pretrialPause, posttrialPause, response, correct, latency,
 stimulusitem, stimulusnumber, stimulusonset,
 stimulusitem, stimulusnumber, stimulusonset,
 stimulusitem, stimulusnumber, stimulusonset,
 values.box_clicking_boxesChecked, values.effortBoxes, values.effortCredits, values.obtained_reward, values.effortX)
</data>

// These checkboxes will also be defined in emot_induction.iqx -- must comment them when transferring!
<checkboxes row1>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("1", "2", "3", "4", "5", "6", "7", "8", "9", "10")
/ optionvalues = ("1", "2", "3", "4","5", "6", "7", "8", "9", "10")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row2>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("11", "12", "13", "14", "15", "16", "17", "18", "19", "20")
/ optionvalues = ("11", "12", "13", "14","15", "16", "17", "18", "19", "20")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row3>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("21", "22", "23", "24", "25", "26", "27", "28", "29", "30")
/ optionvalues = ("21", "22", "23", "24","25", "26", "27", "28", "29", "30")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row4>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("31", "32", "33", "34", "35", "36", "37", "38", "39", "40")
/ optionvalues = ("31", "32", "33", "34","35", "36", "37", "38", "39", "40")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row5>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("41", "42", "43", "44", "45", "46", "47", "48", "49", "50")
/ optionvalues = ("41", "42", "43", "44","45", "46", "47", "48", "49", "50")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<surveypage box_clicking>
/ onTrialBegin = [
 values.box_clicking_boxesChecked = -1
]
/ onTrialEnd = [
values.box_clicking_boxesChecked = checkboxes.row1.selectedCount + checkboxes.row2.selectedCount + checkboxes.row3.selectedCount + checkboxes.row4.selectedCount + checkboxes.row5.selectedCount;
]
/caption = "You must click at least <%values.effortBoxes%> boxes"
/questions = [1-5=sequence(row1, row2, row3, row4, row5)]
/ itemfontstyle = ("Arial", 2.00%, false, false, false, false, 5, 1)
/ itemspacing = 0.0%
/ showpagenumbers = false
/ showbackbutton = false
/ showquestionnumbers = false
/ responsefontstyle = ("Arial", 2.0%, false, false, false, false, 5, 1)
/ timeout = 10000 // 10 seconds
/ showNextButton = false
</surveypage>

<block SocialEffort_Block>
/ onBlockBegin = [
 // Randomized trial type order -- 24 trials
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //1
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //2
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //3
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //4
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //5
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //6
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //7
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //8
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //9
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //10
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //11
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //12
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //13
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //14
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //15
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //16
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //17
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //18
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //19
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //20
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //21
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //22
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //23
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //24
 // Randomized YOU effort-reward 12 pairs
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //1
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //2
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //3
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //4
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //5
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //6
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //7
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //8
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //9
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //10
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //11
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //12
 // Randomized OTHER effort-reward 12 pairs
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //1
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //2
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //3
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //4
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //5
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //6
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //7
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //8
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //9
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //10
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //11
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //12
]
// trials = [1-parameters.num_trials = BoxClick_Trial]
/ trials = [1-24 = BoxClick_Trial] // ATTENTION: defining the number of trials manually....

// trials = [1-24 = Full_Trial] // ATTENTION: defining the number of trials manually....

</block>

<trial BoxClick_Trial>
/ onTrialBegin = [
// pick random postion for effort_option
values.effortX = list.x.nextValue;
// pick position for rest_option
values.restX = list.x.nextValue;
// set trial type
 values.trialType = list.trialTypeList.nextValue;
// set center label according to trial type
if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 values.c_colorname = red;
 values.eff_rew = list.YOU_eff_rewList.nextValue;
} else { // OTHER
 values.c_colorname = blue;
 values.eff_rew = list.OTHER_eff_rewList.nextValue;
}
 // set winnings and effort according to the value in eff_rew
 if (values.eff_rew == "e1_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.easyThresh50;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e1_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.easyThresh50;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e1_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.easyThresh50;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e2_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh65;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e2_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh65;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e2_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh65;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e3_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh80;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e3_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh80;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e3_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh80;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e4_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.hardThresh95;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e4_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.hardThresh95;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e4_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.hardThresh95;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 }
 // Reset the variable box_clicking_boxesChecked
 values.box_clicking_boxesChecked = -1;
]
/ stimulusframes = [1=effort_option, rest_option, center_label]
/ inputdevice = mouse
/ validresponse = (effort_option, rest_option)
/ timeout = 4000 // participant must make a choice in 4000 ms

/ branch = [
 if (trial.BoxClick_Trial.response=="effort_option") { // if subj chose the effortful option
 // run the clicking box survey
 return surveyPage.box_clicking;
 // otherwise, update the rewards (rest option) --> display feedback
 } else if (trial.BoxClick_Trial.response=="rest_option"){ // chose the rest option -- assuming that rest option's reward is 1
 values.choice_made = values.choice_made + 1;
 values.obtained_reward = 1;
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 values.YOU_reward = values.YOU_reward + 1; // assuming that rest option's reward is 1
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else {
 values.OTHER_reward = values.OTHER_reward + 1; // assuming that rest option's reward is 1
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
 } else { // or perhaps, participant did not make a choice in time --> display feedback
 values.choice_not_made = values.choice_not_made + 1;
 values.obtained_reward = 0;
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else {
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
 }
]
/ onTrialend = [
 // update the rewards after surveypage.box_clicking (e.g., if participant chose the effortful option)
 if (trial.BoxClick_Trial.response=="effort_option") { // if subj chose the effortful option
 values.choice_made = values.choice_made + 1;
 if (values.box_clicking_boxesChecked >= values.effortBoxes) { // succeeded in the box clicking task
 values.obtained_reward = values.effortCredits;
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") { // add the reward to YOU_reward
 values.YOU_reward = values.YOU_reward + values.effortCredits;
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else { // add the reward to OTHER_reward
 values.OTHER_reward = values.OTHER_reward + values.effortCredits;
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
 } else {
 values.obtained_reward = 0;
 //if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 //} else {
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 //}
 }
 }
]
</trial>

// show the obtained number of credits after each trial
// CURRENTLY NOT USED
<trial Show_Feedback>
/timeout = 2000
/branch = [
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else { // "OTHER"
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
]
</trial>

<text box_clicking_feedback_YOU>
/items = ("<%values.trialType%> earned <%values.obtained_reward%> credits")
/txcolor = red//(0, 0, 0)
/fontstyle = ("Arial", 2%, false, false, false, false, 5, 0)
/position = (50%, 40%)
</text>

<trial show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU>
/stimulusTimes = [0=box_clicking_feedback_YOU]
/timeout = 2000 // displays the message for 2 seconds
</trial>

<text box_clicking_feedback_OTHER>
/items = ("<%values.trialType%> earned <%values.obtained_reward%> credits")
/txcolor = blue//(0, 0, 0)
/fontstyle = ("Arial", 2%, false, false, false, false, 5, 0)
/position = (50%, 40%)
</text>

<trial show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER>
/stimulusTimes = [0=box_clicking_feedback_OTHER]
/timeout = 2000 // displays the message for 2 seconds
</trial>

// Block containing one full trial -- BoxClick_Trial --> Show_Feedback
//<block Full_Trial>
/// trials = [1=BoxClick_Trial; 2=Show_Feedback]
//</block>

//<page feedback>
//^<%values.trialType%>
//^<%values.obtained_reward%>
//</page>

// Stores the order of the 24 trial types -- YOU or OTHER
<list trialTypeList>
/ selectionMode = sequence
</list>

// Stores the order in which the effort/reward pairs will be presented in the 12 YOU trials
<list YOU_eff_rewList>
/ selectionMode = sequence
</list>

// Stores the order in which the effort/reward pairs will be presented in the 12 OTHER trials
<list OTHER_eff_rewList>
/ selectionMode = sequence
</list>

<text effort_option>
/ items = ("<%values.effortCredits%> credits for <%values.effortBoxes%> boxes")
/ hPosition = values.effortX
/ vPosition = 40%
/ fontStyle = ("arial", 12pt)
/ size = (15%, 10%)
/ vJustify = center
/ txBGColor = lightGray
</text>

<text rest_option>
/ items = ("1 credit for Rest")
/ hPosition = values.restX
/ vPosition = 40%
/ fontStyle = ("arial", 12pt)
/ size = (15%, 10%)
/ vJustify = center
/ txBGColor = lightGray
</text>

<text center_label>
/ items = ("<%values.trialType%>") // this is the label that should be used in the exp!
// items = ("<%values.eff_rew%>") // testing the list selection!
/ position = (50%, 30%)
/ txColor = values.c_colorname
/ fontStyle = ("arial", 16pt, true)
</text>

<list trialType>
/ items = ("YOU", "OTHER")
/ poolsize = parameters.num_trials
/ selectionmode = random
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

// This list contains all effort (4) x reward (3) = 12 combinations for the YOU trials
// It will be used to to sample --once-- all the 12 combinations
<list eff_rew_YOU>
/ items = ("e1_r1", "e1_r2", "e1_r3", "e2_r1", "e2_r2", "e2_r3", "e3_r1", "e3_r2", "e3_r3", "e4_r1", "e4_r2", "e4_r3")
/ poolsize = parameters.num_trials/2
/ replace = false
/ selectionmode = random
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

// Likewise for the OTHER trials
<list eff_rew_OTHER>
/ items = ("e1_r1", "e1_r2", "e1_r3", "e2_r1", "e2_r2", "e2_r3", "e3_r1", "e3_r2", "e3_r3", "e4_r1", "e4_r2", "e4_r3")
/ poolsize = parameters.num_trials/2
/ replace = false
/ selectionmode = random
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

<list x>
/ items = (35%, 65%)
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

[/quote]

The /branch obviously ought to be in the <surveyPage>. Once the <trial> has /branches to the <surveypage>, the <trial> is over. It cannot then somehow /branch to yet another thing after the <surveypage>. The <surveypage> has to /branch.

Moving things around between /onTrialEnd and /barnch will not change a thing about this. /onTrialEnd attributes are for executing logic (performing calculations, etc.) at the end of a trial. They are executed in the order given top to bottom. You cannot "return" a trial from /onTrialEnd, that is not what it's for.
/branch is for dynamically deciding where to go next after the trial.
[/quote]

Thanks, Dave!

However, if I want to provide feedback _after_ participants have completed the <surveypage> AND customize the feedback according to the responses given by participants in the <surveypage>, I thought I would have to add that "logic" in the /onTrialEnd of the <surveypage>, which would not work either, no? I don't see how using /branch inside the <surveypage> could help...

Could you provide an example where (1) responses are given to a <surveypage> , and (2) feedback is displayed on screen depending on the responses given in the <surveypage> (in my code, that is in effect the number of boxes that were clicked by the participant)?

Thanks in advance!
EN
[/quote]

Why do you think that would not wokr? It's really not complicated. Of course you can have /onTrialEnd logic in a <surveyPage> that counts up how many boxes where check and then display that in a feedback trial after.
[/quote]

[code]<values>
/ feedBackMessage = null
</values>

<block taskBlock>
/ trials = [1-4 = choiceTrial]
</block>

<trial choiceTrial>
/ stimulusFrames = [1=clearScreen,doSomething, doNothing]
/ inputDevice = mouse
/ validResponse = (doSomething,doNothing)
/ branch = [
 if (trial.choiceTrial.response == "doNothing") {
 values.feedBackMessage = "You did nothing.";
 return trial.feedBackTrial;
 } else {
 return surveyPage.checkSomeBoxes;
 }
]
</trial>

<trial feedBackTrial>
/ stimulusFrames = [1=clearScreen, feedBackText]
/ validResponse = (0)
/ trialDuration = 2000
</trial>

<surveypage checkSomeBoxes>
/ questions = [1=checkMe]
/ showNextButton = false
/ showPageNumbers = false
/ showQuestionNumbers = false
/ timeout = 5000
/ branch = [
 values.feedBackMessage = concat("Number of boxes checked: ", checkBoxes.checkMe.selectedCount);
 return trial.feedBackTrial;
]
</surveypage>

<checkBoxes checkMe>
/ options = ("01", "02", "03", "04", "05", "06", "07", "08", "09", "10")
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<text doSomething>
/ items = ("I want to check some boxes.")
/ position = (25%, 65%)
</text>

<text doNothing>
/ items = ("I'd rather do nothing.")
/ position = (75%, 65%)
</text>

<text feedBackText>
/ items = ("<%values.feedBackMessage%>")
</text>

[/code]

RE: IQScript, /branch, return inside /onTrialEnd and providing feedback after or ???

Dave — Sun, 06 Jul 2025 14:01:35 GMT

+x[quote]

[b]EN - 7/6/2025[/b]
+x[quote]

[b]Dave - 7/6/2025[/b]
+x[quote]

[b]EN - 7/6/2025[/b]
Hello:

I wanted to provide feedback to participants immediately after a <trial> that has a /branch section within it. The /branch will--depending on the participant's response--call a <surveypage> using 'return' (I copied the current code below in case it's helpful -- the <trial> in case is BoxClick_Trial).

To display the feedback after each <trial>, I thought about using additional 'return' commands inside the /onTrialEnd section. The idea was to use 'return' to call another <trial> (after updating some global variables) whose only job is to display a customized message on the screen. However, using 'return' inside the /onTrialEnd section does not seem to be allowed.

After some fiddling, I decided to move portions of the code that were originally inside /onTrialEnd to inside the /branch, right after the conditional call to <surveypage>. However, and somehow expectedly in hindsight, because the flow of the program returns directly to /onTrialEnd after it is deviated by the /branch, I still have not found a way to display the feedback if the <surveypage> is called (if <surveypage> is _not called_, feedbacks are properly displayed by the code following the 'return' command in the /branch).

I guess this is a fairly common case but I wonder what would be the best way to handle it?
Any help would be greatly appreciated!
With very best wishes,
EN
--
// Global variables -- some of these variables should be re-defined in emot_induction.iqx

<values>
//Thresholds specified by the procedure defined in calibration_time_boxcount.iqx
// Here defined only for testing purposes
/ easyThresh50 = 8 //The number of boxes at the 50% level
/ mediumThresh65 = 10 //The number of boxes at the 65% level
/ mediumThresh80 = 13 //The number of boxes at the 80% level
/ hardThresh95 = 15 //The number of boxes at the 95% level

// From here -- may have to be specified globally to be used in other places
// Total number of boxes clicked in box_clicking
/ box_clicking_boxesChecked = -1
/ YOU_reward = 0
/ OTHER_reward = 0
/ choice_made = 0
/ choice_not_made = 0
/ obtained_reward = 0

// From here -- specific to social_effort_box_click_task.iqx
//Color of trial type -- in fact, red (YOU) or blue (OTHER)
/ c_colorname = black
//Stores the selected combination of effort and reward -- e.g., e1_r1 means the lowest effort and the lowest reward
/ eff_rew = "e0_r0" // for filling purposes, this condition DOES NOT EXIST

// Position of the two choices
/ effortX = 0%
/ restX = 0%

// Trial type
/ trialType = null

// Strings to be displayed at every trial
/ centerLabel = null // will be either YOU or OTHER
/ effortCredits = 0
/ effortBoxes = 0

</values>

<parameters> //
//These are the rewards (fixed for all participants)
/ low_pay = 2 //Low reward
/ medium_pay = 6 //Medium reward
/ high_pay = 10 //High reward

/ num_trials = 24 // total number of trials
</parameters>

// data to be saved in summary file -- CONSIDER ADDING ITEMS in the future
<summarydata>
/columns = (script.startdate, script.starttime, script.subjectid, script.groupid,
 script.elapsedtime, computer.platform, values.YOU_reward, values.OTHER_reward,
 values.choice_made, values.choice_not_made)
</summarydata>

// data to be saved in raw data file
<data>
/columns = (date, time, group, subject, session, build, blockNum, trialNum, blockCode, trialCode,
 pretrialPause, posttrialPause, response, correct, latency,
 stimulusitem, stimulusnumber, stimulusonset,
 stimulusitem, stimulusnumber, stimulusonset,
 stimulusitem, stimulusnumber, stimulusonset,
 values.box_clicking_boxesChecked, values.effortBoxes, values.effortCredits, values.obtained_reward, values.effortX)
</data>

// These checkboxes will also be defined in emot_induction.iqx -- must comment them when transferring!
<checkboxes row1>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("1", "2", "3", "4", "5", "6", "7", "8", "9", "10")
/ optionvalues = ("1", "2", "3", "4","5", "6", "7", "8", "9", "10")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row2>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("11", "12", "13", "14", "15", "16", "17", "18", "19", "20")
/ optionvalues = ("11", "12", "13", "14","15", "16", "17", "18", "19", "20")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row3>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("21", "22", "23", "24", "25", "26", "27", "28", "29", "30")
/ optionvalues = ("21", "22", "23", "24","25", "26", "27", "28", "29", "30")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row4>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("31", "32", "33", "34", "35", "36", "37", "38", "39", "40")
/ optionvalues = ("31", "32", "33", "34","35", "36", "37", "38", "39", "40")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row5>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("41", "42", "43", "44", "45", "46", "47", "48", "49", "50")
/ optionvalues = ("41", "42", "43", "44","45", "46", "47", "48", "49", "50")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<surveypage box_clicking>
/ onTrialBegin = [
 values.box_clicking_boxesChecked = -1
]
/ onTrialEnd = [
values.box_clicking_boxesChecked = checkboxes.row1.selectedCount + checkboxes.row2.selectedCount + checkboxes.row3.selectedCount + checkboxes.row4.selectedCount + checkboxes.row5.selectedCount;
]
/caption = "You must click at least <%values.effortBoxes%> boxes"
/questions = [1-5=sequence(row1, row2, row3, row4, row5)]
/ itemfontstyle = ("Arial", 2.00%, false, false, false, false, 5, 1)
/ itemspacing = 0.0%
/ showpagenumbers = false
/ showbackbutton = false
/ showquestionnumbers = false
/ responsefontstyle = ("Arial", 2.0%, false, false, false, false, 5, 1)
/ timeout = 10000 // 10 seconds
/ showNextButton = false
</surveypage>

<block SocialEffort_Block>
/ onBlockBegin = [
 // Randomized trial type order -- 24 trials
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //1
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //2
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //3
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //4
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //5
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //6
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //7
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //8
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //9
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //10
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //11
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //12
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //13
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //14
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //15
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //16
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //17
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //18
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //19
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //20
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //21
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //22
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //23
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //24
 // Randomized YOU effort-reward 12 pairs
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //1
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //2
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //3
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //4
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //5
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //6
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //7
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //8
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //9
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //10
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //11
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //12
 // Randomized OTHER effort-reward 12 pairs
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //1
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //2
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //3
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //4
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //5
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //6
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //7
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //8
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //9
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //10
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //11
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //12
]
// trials = [1-parameters.num_trials = BoxClick_Trial]
/ trials = [1-24 = BoxClick_Trial] // ATTENTION: defining the number of trials manually....

// trials = [1-24 = Full_Trial] // ATTENTION: defining the number of trials manually....

</block>

<trial BoxClick_Trial>
/ onTrialBegin = [
// pick random postion for effort_option
values.effortX = list.x.nextValue;
// pick position for rest_option
values.restX = list.x.nextValue;
// set trial type
 values.trialType = list.trialTypeList.nextValue;
// set center label according to trial type
if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 values.c_colorname = red;
 values.eff_rew = list.YOU_eff_rewList.nextValue;
} else { // OTHER
 values.c_colorname = blue;
 values.eff_rew = list.OTHER_eff_rewList.nextValue;
}
 // set winnings and effort according to the value in eff_rew
 if (values.eff_rew == "e1_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.easyThresh50;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e1_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.easyThresh50;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e1_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.easyThresh50;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e2_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh65;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e2_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh65;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e2_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh65;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e3_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh80;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e3_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh80;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e3_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh80;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e4_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.hardThresh95;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e4_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.hardThresh95;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e4_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.hardThresh95;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 }
 // Reset the variable box_clicking_boxesChecked
 values.box_clicking_boxesChecked = -1;
]
/ stimulusframes = [1=effort_option, rest_option, center_label]
/ inputdevice = mouse
/ validresponse = (effort_option, rest_option)
/ timeout = 4000 // participant must make a choice in 4000 ms

/ branch = [
 if (trial.BoxClick_Trial.response=="effort_option") { // if subj chose the effortful option
 // run the clicking box survey
 return surveyPage.box_clicking;
 // otherwise, update the rewards (rest option) --> display feedback
 } else if (trial.BoxClick_Trial.response=="rest_option"){ // chose the rest option -- assuming that rest option's reward is 1
 values.choice_made = values.choice_made + 1;
 values.obtained_reward = 1;
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 values.YOU_reward = values.YOU_reward + 1; // assuming that rest option's reward is 1
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else {
 values.OTHER_reward = values.OTHER_reward + 1; // assuming that rest option's reward is 1
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
 } else { // or perhaps, participant did not make a choice in time --> display feedback
 values.choice_not_made = values.choice_not_made + 1;
 values.obtained_reward = 0;
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else {
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
 }
]
/ onTrialend = [
 // update the rewards after surveypage.box_clicking (e.g., if participant chose the effortful option)
 if (trial.BoxClick_Trial.response=="effort_option") { // if subj chose the effortful option
 values.choice_made = values.choice_made + 1;
 if (values.box_clicking_boxesChecked >= values.effortBoxes) { // succeeded in the box clicking task
 values.obtained_reward = values.effortCredits;
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") { // add the reward to YOU_reward
 values.YOU_reward = values.YOU_reward + values.effortCredits;
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else { // add the reward to OTHER_reward
 values.OTHER_reward = values.OTHER_reward + values.effortCredits;
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
 } else {
 values.obtained_reward = 0;
 //if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 //} else {
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 //}
 }
 }
]
</trial>

// show the obtained number of credits after each trial
// CURRENTLY NOT USED
<trial Show_Feedback>
/timeout = 2000
/branch = [
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else { // "OTHER"
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
]
</trial>

<text box_clicking_feedback_YOU>
/items = ("<%values.trialType%> earned <%values.obtained_reward%> credits")
/txcolor = red//(0, 0, 0)
/fontstyle = ("Arial", 2%, false, false, false, false, 5, 0)
/position = (50%, 40%)
</text>

<trial show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU>
/stimulusTimes = [0=box_clicking_feedback_YOU]
/timeout = 2000 // displays the message for 2 seconds
</trial>

<text box_clicking_feedback_OTHER>
/items = ("<%values.trialType%> earned <%values.obtained_reward%> credits")
/txcolor = blue//(0, 0, 0)
/fontstyle = ("Arial", 2%, false, false, false, false, 5, 0)
/position = (50%, 40%)
</text>

<trial show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER>
/stimulusTimes = [0=box_clicking_feedback_OTHER]
/timeout = 2000 // displays the message for 2 seconds
</trial>

// Block containing one full trial -- BoxClick_Trial --> Show_Feedback
//<block Full_Trial>
/// trials = [1=BoxClick_Trial; 2=Show_Feedback]
//</block>

//<page feedback>
//^<%values.trialType%>
//^<%values.obtained_reward%>
//</page>

// Stores the order of the 24 trial types -- YOU or OTHER
<list trialTypeList>
/ selectionMode = sequence
</list>

// Stores the order in which the effort/reward pairs will be presented in the 12 YOU trials
<list YOU_eff_rewList>
/ selectionMode = sequence
</list>

// Stores the order in which the effort/reward pairs will be presented in the 12 OTHER trials
<list OTHER_eff_rewList>
/ selectionMode = sequence
</list>

<text effort_option>
/ items = ("<%values.effortCredits%> credits for <%values.effortBoxes%> boxes")
/ hPosition = values.effortX
/ vPosition = 40%
/ fontStyle = ("arial", 12pt)
/ size = (15%, 10%)
/ vJustify = center
/ txBGColor = lightGray
</text>

<text rest_option>
/ items = ("1 credit for Rest")
/ hPosition = values.restX
/ vPosition = 40%
/ fontStyle = ("arial", 12pt)
/ size = (15%, 10%)
/ vJustify = center
/ txBGColor = lightGray
</text>

<text center_label>
/ items = ("<%values.trialType%>") // this is the label that should be used in the exp!
// items = ("<%values.eff_rew%>") // testing the list selection!
/ position = (50%, 30%)
/ txColor = values.c_colorname
/ fontStyle = ("arial", 16pt, true)
</text>

<list trialType>
/ items = ("YOU", "OTHER")
/ poolsize = parameters.num_trials
/ selectionmode = random
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

// This list contains all effort (4) x reward (3) = 12 combinations for the YOU trials
// It will be used to to sample --once-- all the 12 combinations
<list eff_rew_YOU>
/ items = ("e1_r1", "e1_r2", "e1_r3", "e2_r1", "e2_r2", "e2_r3", "e3_r1", "e3_r2", "e3_r3", "e4_r1", "e4_r2", "e4_r3")
/ poolsize = parameters.num_trials/2
/ replace = false
/ selectionmode = random
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

// Likewise for the OTHER trials
<list eff_rew_OTHER>
/ items = ("e1_r1", "e1_r2", "e1_r3", "e2_r1", "e2_r2", "e2_r3", "e3_r1", "e3_r2", "e3_r3", "e4_r1", "e4_r2", "e4_r3")
/ poolsize = parameters.num_trials/2
/ replace = false
/ selectionmode = random
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

<list x>
/ items = (35%, 65%)
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

[/quote]

The /branch obviously ought to be in the <surveyPage>. Once the <trial> has /branches to the <surveypage>, the <trial> is over. It cannot then somehow /branch to yet another thing after the <surveypage>. The <surveypage> has to /branch.

Moving things around between /onTrialEnd and /barnch will not change a thing about this. /onTrialEnd attributes are for executing logic (performing calculations, etc.) at the end of a trial. They are executed in the order given top to bottom. You cannot "return" a trial from /onTrialEnd, that is not what it's for.
/branch is for dynamically deciding where to go next after the trial.
[/quote]

Thanks, Dave!

However, if I want to provide feedback _after_ participants have completed the <surveypage> AND customize the feedback according to the responses given by participants in the <surveypage>, I thought I would have to add that "logic" in the /onTrialEnd of the <surveypage>, which would not work either, no? I don't see how using /branch inside the <surveypage> could help...

Could you provide an example where (1) responses are given to a <surveypage> , and (2) feedback is displayed on screen depending on the responses given in the <surveypage> (in my code, that is in effect the number of boxes that were clicked by the participant)?

Thanks in advance!
EN
[/quote]

Why do you think that would not wokr? It's really not complicated. Of course you can have /onTrialEnd logic in a <surveyPage> that counts up how many boxes where check and then display that in a feedback trial after.

RE: IQScript, /branch, return inside /onTrialEnd and providing feedback after or ???

EN — Sun, 06 Jul 2025 13:56:45 GMT

+x[quote]

[b]Dave - 7/6/2025[/b]
+x[quote]

[b]EN - 7/6/2025[/b]
Hello:

I wanted to provide feedback to participants immediately after a <trial> that has a /branch section within it. The /branch will--depending on the participant's response--call a <surveypage> using 'return' (I copied the current code below in case it's helpful -- the <trial> in case is BoxClick_Trial).

To display the feedback after each <trial>, I thought about using additional 'return' commands inside the /onTrialEnd section. The idea was to use 'return' to call another <trial> (after updating some global variables) whose only job is to display a customized message on the screen. However, using 'return' inside the /onTrialEnd section does not seem to be allowed.

After some fiddling, I decided to move portions of the code that were originally inside /onTrialEnd to inside the /branch, right after the conditional call to <surveypage>. However, and somehow expectedly in hindsight, because the flow of the program returns directly to /onTrialEnd after it is deviated by the /branch, I still have not found a way to display the feedback if the <surveypage> is called (if <surveypage> is _not called_, feedbacks are properly displayed by the code following the 'return' command in the /branch).

I guess this is a fairly common case but I wonder what would be the best way to handle it?
Any help would be greatly appreciated!
With very best wishes,
EN
--
// Global variables -- some of these variables should be re-defined in emot_induction.iqx

<values>
//Thresholds specified by the procedure defined in calibration_time_boxcount.iqx
// Here defined only for testing purposes
/ easyThresh50 = 8 //The number of boxes at the 50% level
/ mediumThresh65 = 10 //The number of boxes at the 65% level
/ mediumThresh80 = 13 //The number of boxes at the 80% level
/ hardThresh95 = 15 //The number of boxes at the 95% level

// From here -- may have to be specified globally to be used in other places
// Total number of boxes clicked in box_clicking
/ box_clicking_boxesChecked = -1
/ YOU_reward = 0
/ OTHER_reward = 0
/ choice_made = 0
/ choice_not_made = 0
/ obtained_reward = 0

// From here -- specific to social_effort_box_click_task.iqx
//Color of trial type -- in fact, red (YOU) or blue (OTHER)
/ c_colorname = black
//Stores the selected combination of effort and reward -- e.g., e1_r1 means the lowest effort and the lowest reward
/ eff_rew = "e0_r0" // for filling purposes, this condition DOES NOT EXIST

// Position of the two choices
/ effortX = 0%
/ restX = 0%

// Trial type
/ trialType = null

// Strings to be displayed at every trial
/ centerLabel = null // will be either YOU or OTHER
/ effortCredits = 0
/ effortBoxes = 0

</values>

<parameters> //
//These are the rewards (fixed for all participants)
/ low_pay = 2 //Low reward
/ medium_pay = 6 //Medium reward
/ high_pay = 10 //High reward

/ num_trials = 24 // total number of trials
</parameters>

// data to be saved in summary file -- CONSIDER ADDING ITEMS in the future
<summarydata>
/columns = (script.startdate, script.starttime, script.subjectid, script.groupid,
 script.elapsedtime, computer.platform, values.YOU_reward, values.OTHER_reward,
 values.choice_made, values.choice_not_made)
</summarydata>

// data to be saved in raw data file
<data>
/columns = (date, time, group, subject, session, build, blockNum, trialNum, blockCode, trialCode,
 pretrialPause, posttrialPause, response, correct, latency,
 stimulusitem, stimulusnumber, stimulusonset,
 stimulusitem, stimulusnumber, stimulusonset,
 stimulusitem, stimulusnumber, stimulusonset,
 values.box_clicking_boxesChecked, values.effortBoxes, values.effortCredits, values.obtained_reward, values.effortX)
</data>

// These checkboxes will also be defined in emot_induction.iqx -- must comment them when transferring!
<checkboxes row1>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("1", "2", "3", "4", "5", "6", "7", "8", "9", "10")
/ optionvalues = ("1", "2", "3", "4","5", "6", "7", "8", "9", "10")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row2>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("11", "12", "13", "14", "15", "16", "17", "18", "19", "20")
/ optionvalues = ("11", "12", "13", "14","15", "16", "17", "18", "19", "20")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row3>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("21", "22", "23", "24", "25", "26", "27", "28", "29", "30")
/ optionvalues = ("21", "22", "23", "24","25", "26", "27", "28", "29", "30")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row4>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("31", "32", "33", "34", "35", "36", "37", "38", "39", "40")
/ optionvalues = ("31", "32", "33", "34","35", "36", "37", "38", "39", "40")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row5>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("41", "42", "43", "44", "45", "46", "47", "48", "49", "50")
/ optionvalues = ("41", "42", "43", "44","45", "46", "47", "48", "49", "50")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<surveypage box_clicking>
/ onTrialBegin = [
 values.box_clicking_boxesChecked = -1
]
/ onTrialEnd = [
values.box_clicking_boxesChecked = checkboxes.row1.selectedCount + checkboxes.row2.selectedCount + checkboxes.row3.selectedCount + checkboxes.row4.selectedCount + checkboxes.row5.selectedCount;
]
/caption = "You must click at least <%values.effortBoxes%> boxes"
/questions = [1-5=sequence(row1, row2, row3, row4, row5)]
/ itemfontstyle = ("Arial", 2.00%, false, false, false, false, 5, 1)
/ itemspacing = 0.0%
/ showpagenumbers = false
/ showbackbutton = false
/ showquestionnumbers = false
/ responsefontstyle = ("Arial", 2.0%, false, false, false, false, 5, 1)
/ timeout = 10000 // 10 seconds
/ showNextButton = false
</surveypage>

<block SocialEffort_Block>
/ onBlockBegin = [
 // Randomized trial type order -- 24 trials
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //1
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //2
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //3
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //4
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //5
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //6
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //7
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //8
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //9
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //10
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //11
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //12
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //13
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //14
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //15
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //16
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //17
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //18
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //19
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //20
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //21
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //22
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //23
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //24
 // Randomized YOU effort-reward 12 pairs
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //1
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //2
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //3
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //4
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //5
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //6
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //7
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //8
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //9
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //10
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //11
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //12
 // Randomized OTHER effort-reward 12 pairs
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //1
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //2
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //3
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //4
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //5
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //6
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //7
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //8
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //9
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //10
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //11
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //12
]
// trials = [1-parameters.num_trials = BoxClick_Trial]
/ trials = [1-24 = BoxClick_Trial] // ATTENTION: defining the number of trials manually....

// trials = [1-24 = Full_Trial] // ATTENTION: defining the number of trials manually....

</block>

<trial BoxClick_Trial>
/ onTrialBegin = [
// pick random postion for effort_option
values.effortX = list.x.nextValue;
// pick position for rest_option
values.restX = list.x.nextValue;
// set trial type
 values.trialType = list.trialTypeList.nextValue;
// set center label according to trial type
if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 values.c_colorname = red;
 values.eff_rew = list.YOU_eff_rewList.nextValue;
} else { // OTHER
 values.c_colorname = blue;
 values.eff_rew = list.OTHER_eff_rewList.nextValue;
}
 // set winnings and effort according to the value in eff_rew
 if (values.eff_rew == "e1_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.easyThresh50;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e1_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.easyThresh50;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e1_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.easyThresh50;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e2_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh65;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e2_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh65;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e2_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh65;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e3_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh80;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e3_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh80;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e3_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh80;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e4_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.hardThresh95;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e4_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.hardThresh95;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e4_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.hardThresh95;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 }
 // Reset the variable box_clicking_boxesChecked
 values.box_clicking_boxesChecked = -1;
]
/ stimulusframes = [1=effort_option, rest_option, center_label]
/ inputdevice = mouse
/ validresponse = (effort_option, rest_option)
/ timeout = 4000 // participant must make a choice in 4000 ms

/ branch = [
 if (trial.BoxClick_Trial.response=="effort_option") { // if subj chose the effortful option
 // run the clicking box survey
 return surveyPage.box_clicking;
 // otherwise, update the rewards (rest option) --> display feedback
 } else if (trial.BoxClick_Trial.response=="rest_option"){ // chose the rest option -- assuming that rest option's reward is 1
 values.choice_made = values.choice_made + 1;
 values.obtained_reward = 1;
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 values.YOU_reward = values.YOU_reward + 1; // assuming that rest option's reward is 1
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else {
 values.OTHER_reward = values.OTHER_reward + 1; // assuming that rest option's reward is 1
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
 } else { // or perhaps, participant did not make a choice in time --> display feedback
 values.choice_not_made = values.choice_not_made + 1;
 values.obtained_reward = 0;
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else {
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
 }
]
/ onTrialend = [
 // update the rewards after surveypage.box_clicking (e.g., if participant chose the effortful option)
 if (trial.BoxClick_Trial.response=="effort_option") { // if subj chose the effortful option
 values.choice_made = values.choice_made + 1;
 if (values.box_clicking_boxesChecked >= values.effortBoxes) { // succeeded in the box clicking task
 values.obtained_reward = values.effortCredits;
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") { // add the reward to YOU_reward
 values.YOU_reward = values.YOU_reward + values.effortCredits;
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else { // add the reward to OTHER_reward
 values.OTHER_reward = values.OTHER_reward + values.effortCredits;
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
 } else {
 values.obtained_reward = 0;
 //if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 //} else {
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 //}
 }
 }
]
</trial>

// show the obtained number of credits after each trial
// CURRENTLY NOT USED
<trial Show_Feedback>
/timeout = 2000
/branch = [
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else { // "OTHER"
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
]
</trial>

<text box_clicking_feedback_YOU>
/items = ("<%values.trialType%> earned <%values.obtained_reward%> credits")
/txcolor = red//(0, 0, 0)
/fontstyle = ("Arial", 2%, false, false, false, false, 5, 0)
/position = (50%, 40%)
</text>

<trial show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU>
/stimulusTimes = [0=box_clicking_feedback_YOU]
/timeout = 2000 // displays the message for 2 seconds
</trial>

<text box_clicking_feedback_OTHER>
/items = ("<%values.trialType%> earned <%values.obtained_reward%> credits")
/txcolor = blue//(0, 0, 0)
/fontstyle = ("Arial", 2%, false, false, false, false, 5, 0)
/position = (50%, 40%)
</text>

<trial show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER>
/stimulusTimes = [0=box_clicking_feedback_OTHER]
/timeout = 2000 // displays the message for 2 seconds
</trial>

// Block containing one full trial -- BoxClick_Trial --> Show_Feedback
//<block Full_Trial>
/// trials = [1=BoxClick_Trial; 2=Show_Feedback]
//</block>

//<page feedback>
//^<%values.trialType%>
//^<%values.obtained_reward%>
//</page>

// Stores the order of the 24 trial types -- YOU or OTHER
<list trialTypeList>
/ selectionMode = sequence
</list>

// Stores the order in which the effort/reward pairs will be presented in the 12 YOU trials
<list YOU_eff_rewList>
/ selectionMode = sequence
</list>

// Stores the order in which the effort/reward pairs will be presented in the 12 OTHER trials
<list OTHER_eff_rewList>
/ selectionMode = sequence
</list>

<text effort_option>
/ items = ("<%values.effortCredits%> credits for <%values.effortBoxes%> boxes")
/ hPosition = values.effortX
/ vPosition = 40%
/ fontStyle = ("arial", 12pt)
/ size = (15%, 10%)
/ vJustify = center
/ txBGColor = lightGray
</text>

<text rest_option>
/ items = ("1 credit for Rest")
/ hPosition = values.restX
/ vPosition = 40%
/ fontStyle = ("arial", 12pt)
/ size = (15%, 10%)
/ vJustify = center
/ txBGColor = lightGray
</text>

<text center_label>
/ items = ("<%values.trialType%>") // this is the label that should be used in the exp!
// items = ("<%values.eff_rew%>") // testing the list selection!
/ position = (50%, 30%)
/ txColor = values.c_colorname
/ fontStyle = ("arial", 16pt, true)
</text>

<list trialType>
/ items = ("YOU", "OTHER")
/ poolsize = parameters.num_trials
/ selectionmode = random
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

// This list contains all effort (4) x reward (3) = 12 combinations for the YOU trials
// It will be used to to sample --once-- all the 12 combinations
<list eff_rew_YOU>
/ items = ("e1_r1", "e1_r2", "e1_r3", "e2_r1", "e2_r2", "e2_r3", "e3_r1", "e3_r2", "e3_r3", "e4_r1", "e4_r2", "e4_r3")
/ poolsize = parameters.num_trials/2
/ replace = false
/ selectionmode = random
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

// Likewise for the OTHER trials
<list eff_rew_OTHER>
/ items = ("e1_r1", "e1_r2", "e1_r3", "e2_r1", "e2_r2", "e2_r3", "e3_r1", "e3_r2", "e3_r3", "e4_r1", "e4_r2", "e4_r3")
/ poolsize = parameters.num_trials/2
/ replace = false
/ selectionmode = random
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

<list x>
/ items = (35%, 65%)
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

[/quote]

The /branch obviously ought to be in the <surveyPage>. Once the <trial> has /branches to the <surveypage>, the <trial> is over. It cannot then somehow /branch to yet another thing after the <surveypage>. The <surveypage> has to /branch.

Moving things around between /onTrialEnd and /barnch will not change a thing about this. /onTrialEnd attributes are for executing logic (performing calculations, etc.) at the end of a trial. They are executed in the order given top to bottom. You cannot "return" a trial from /onTrialEnd, that is not what it's for.
/branch is for dynamically deciding where to go next after the trial.
[/quote]

Thanks, Dave!

However, if I want to provide feedback _after_ participants have completed the <surveypage> AND customize the feedback according to the responses given by participants in the <surveypage>, I thought I would have to add that "logic" in the /onTrialEnd of the <surveypage>, which would not work either, no? I don't see how using /branch inside the <surveypage> could help...

Could you provide an example where (1) responses are given to a <surveypage> , and (2) feedback is displayed on screen depending on the responses given in the <surveypage> (in my code, that is in effect the number of boxes that were clicked by the participant)?

Thanks in advance!
EN

RE: IQScript, /branch, return inside /onTrialEnd and providing feedback after or ???

Dave — Sun, 06 Jul 2025 13:07:04 GMT

+x[quote]

[b]EN - 7/6/2025[/b]
Hello:

I wanted to provide feedback to participants immediately after a <trial> that has a /branch section within it. The /branch will--depending on the participant's response--call a <surveypage> using 'return' (I copied the current code below in case it's helpful -- the <trial> in case is BoxClick_Trial).

To display the feedback after each <trial>, I thought about using additional 'return' commands inside the /onTrialEnd section. The idea was to use 'return' to call another <trial> (after updating some global variables) whose only job is to display a customized message on the screen. However, using 'return' inside the /onTrialEnd section does not seem to be allowed.

After some fiddling, I decided to move portions of the code that were originally inside /onTrialEnd to inside the /branch, right after the conditional call to <surveypage>. However, and somehow expectedly in hindsight, because the flow of the program returns directly to /onTrialEnd after it is deviated by the /branch, I still have not found a way to display the feedback if the <surveypage> is called (if <surveypage> is _not called_, feedbacks are properly displayed by the code following the 'return' command in the /branch).

I guess this is a fairly common case but I wonder what would be the best way to handle it?
Any help would be greatly appreciated!
With very best wishes,
EN
--
// Global variables -- some of these variables should be re-defined in emot_induction.iqx

<values>
//Thresholds specified by the procedure defined in calibration_time_boxcount.iqx
// Here defined only for testing purposes
/ easyThresh50 = 8 //The number of boxes at the 50% level
/ mediumThresh65 = 10 //The number of boxes at the 65% level
/ mediumThresh80 = 13 //The number of boxes at the 80% level
/ hardThresh95 = 15 //The number of boxes at the 95% level

// From here -- may have to be specified globally to be used in other places
// Total number of boxes clicked in box_clicking
/ box_clicking_boxesChecked = -1
/ YOU_reward = 0
/ OTHER_reward = 0
/ choice_made = 0
/ choice_not_made = 0
/ obtained_reward = 0

// From here -- specific to social_effort_box_click_task.iqx
//Color of trial type -- in fact, red (YOU) or blue (OTHER)
/ c_colorname = black
//Stores the selected combination of effort and reward -- e.g., e1_r1 means the lowest effort and the lowest reward
/ eff_rew = "e0_r0" // for filling purposes, this condition DOES NOT EXIST

// Position of the two choices
/ effortX = 0%
/ restX = 0%

// Trial type
/ trialType = null

// Strings to be displayed at every trial
/ centerLabel = null // will be either YOU or OTHER
/ effortCredits = 0
/ effortBoxes = 0

</values>

<parameters> //
//These are the rewards (fixed for all participants)
/ low_pay = 2 //Low reward
/ medium_pay = 6 //Medium reward
/ high_pay = 10 //High reward

/ num_trials = 24 // total number of trials
</parameters>

// data to be saved in summary file -- CONSIDER ADDING ITEMS in the future
<summarydata>
/columns = (script.startdate, script.starttime, script.subjectid, script.groupid,
 script.elapsedtime, computer.platform, values.YOU_reward, values.OTHER_reward,
 values.choice_made, values.choice_not_made)
</summarydata>

// data to be saved in raw data file
<data>
/columns = (date, time, group, subject, session, build, blockNum, trialNum, blockCode, trialCode,
 pretrialPause, posttrialPause, response, correct, latency,
 stimulusitem, stimulusnumber, stimulusonset,
 stimulusitem, stimulusnumber, stimulusonset,
 stimulusitem, stimulusnumber, stimulusonset,
 values.box_clicking_boxesChecked, values.effortBoxes, values.effortCredits, values.obtained_reward, values.effortX)
</data>

// These checkboxes will also be defined in emot_induction.iqx -- must comment them when transferring!
<checkboxes row1>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("1", "2", "3", "4", "5", "6", "7", "8", "9", "10")
/ optionvalues = ("1", "2", "3", "4","5", "6", "7", "8", "9", "10")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row2>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("11", "12", "13", "14", "15", "16", "17", "18", "19", "20")
/ optionvalues = ("11", "12", "13", "14","15", "16", "17", "18", "19", "20")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row3>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("21", "22", "23", "24", "25", "26", "27", "28", "29", "30")
/ optionvalues = ("21", "22", "23", "24","25", "26", "27", "28", "29", "30")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row4>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("31", "32", "33", "34", "35", "36", "37", "38", "39", "40")
/ optionvalues = ("31", "32", "33", "34","35", "36", "37", "38", "39", "40")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<checkboxes row5>
/ caption=" "
/ options=("41", "42", "43", "44", "45", "46", "47", "48", "49", "50")
/ optionvalues = ("41", "42", "43", "44","45", "46", "47", "48", "49", "50")
/ required = true
/ orientation = horizontalequal
</checkboxes>

<surveypage box_clicking>
/ onTrialBegin = [
 values.box_clicking_boxesChecked = -1
]
/ onTrialEnd = [
values.box_clicking_boxesChecked = checkboxes.row1.selectedCount + checkboxes.row2.selectedCount + checkboxes.row3.selectedCount + checkboxes.row4.selectedCount + checkboxes.row5.selectedCount;
]
/caption = "You must click at least <%values.effortBoxes%> boxes"
/questions = [1-5=sequence(row1, row2, row3, row4, row5)]
/ itemfontstyle = ("Arial", 2.00%, false, false, false, false, 5, 1)
/ itemspacing = 0.0%
/ showpagenumbers = false
/ showbackbutton = false
/ showquestionnumbers = false
/ responsefontstyle = ("Arial", 2.0%, false, false, false, false, 5, 1)
/ timeout = 10000 // 10 seconds
/ showNextButton = false
</surveypage>

<block SocialEffort_Block>
/ onBlockBegin = [
 // Randomized trial type order -- 24 trials
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //1
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //2
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //3
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //4
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //5
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //6
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //7
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //8
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //9
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //10
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //11
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //12
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //13
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //14
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //15
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //16
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //17
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //18
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //19
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //20
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //21
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //22
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //23
 list.trialTypeList.appendItem(list.trialType.nextValue); //24
 // Randomized YOU effort-reward 12 pairs
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //1
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //2
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //3
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //4
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //5
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //6
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //7
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //8
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //9
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //10
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //11
 list.YOU_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_YOU.nextValue); //12
 // Randomized OTHER effort-reward 12 pairs
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //1
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //2
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //3
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //4
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //5
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //6
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //7
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //8
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //9
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //10
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //11
 list.OTHER_eff_rewList.appendItem(list.eff_rew_OTHER.nextValue); //12
]
// trials = [1-parameters.num_trials = BoxClick_Trial]
/ trials = [1-24 = BoxClick_Trial] // ATTENTION: defining the number of trials manually....

// trials = [1-24 = Full_Trial] // ATTENTION: defining the number of trials manually....

</block>

<trial BoxClick_Trial>
/ onTrialBegin = [
// pick random postion for effort_option
values.effortX = list.x.nextValue;
// pick position for rest_option
values.restX = list.x.nextValue;
// set trial type
 values.trialType = list.trialTypeList.nextValue;
// set center label according to trial type
if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 values.c_colorname = red;
 values.eff_rew = list.YOU_eff_rewList.nextValue;
} else { // OTHER
 values.c_colorname = blue;
 values.eff_rew = list.OTHER_eff_rewList.nextValue;
}
 // set winnings and effort according to the value in eff_rew
 if (values.eff_rew == "e1_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.easyThresh50;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e1_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.easyThresh50;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e1_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.easyThresh50;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e2_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh65;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e2_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh65;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e2_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh65;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e3_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh80;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e3_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh80;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e3_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.mediumThresh80;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e4_r1") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.hardThresh95;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.low_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e4_r2") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.hardThresh95;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.medium_pay;
 } else if (values.eff_rew == "e4_r3") {
 values.effortBoxes = values.hardThresh95;
 values.effortCredits = parameters.high_pay;
 }
 // Reset the variable box_clicking_boxesChecked
 values.box_clicking_boxesChecked = -1;
]
/ stimulusframes = [1=effort_option, rest_option, center_label]
/ inputdevice = mouse
/ validresponse = (effort_option, rest_option)
/ timeout = 4000 // participant must make a choice in 4000 ms

/ branch = [
 if (trial.BoxClick_Trial.response=="effort_option") { // if subj chose the effortful option
 // run the clicking box survey
 return surveyPage.box_clicking;
 // otherwise, update the rewards (rest option) --> display feedback
 } else if (trial.BoxClick_Trial.response=="rest_option"){ // chose the rest option -- assuming that rest option's reward is 1
 values.choice_made = values.choice_made + 1;
 values.obtained_reward = 1;
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 values.YOU_reward = values.YOU_reward + 1; // assuming that rest option's reward is 1
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else {
 values.OTHER_reward = values.OTHER_reward + 1; // assuming that rest option's reward is 1
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
 } else { // or perhaps, participant did not make a choice in time --> display feedback
 values.choice_not_made = values.choice_not_made + 1;
 values.obtained_reward = 0;
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else {
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
 }
]
/ onTrialend = [
 // update the rewards after surveypage.box_clicking (e.g., if participant chose the effortful option)
 if (trial.BoxClick_Trial.response=="effort_option") { // if subj chose the effortful option
 values.choice_made = values.choice_made + 1;
 if (values.box_clicking_boxesChecked >= values.effortBoxes) { // succeeded in the box clicking task
 values.obtained_reward = values.effortCredits;
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") { // add the reward to YOU_reward
 values.YOU_reward = values.YOU_reward + values.effortCredits;
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else { // add the reward to OTHER_reward
 values.OTHER_reward = values.OTHER_reward + values.effortCredits;
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
 } else {
 values.obtained_reward = 0;
 //if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 //} else {
 //return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 //}
 }
 }
]
</trial>

// show the obtained number of credits after each trial
// CURRENTLY NOT USED
<trial Show_Feedback>
/timeout = 2000
/branch = [
 if (values.trialType == "YOU") {
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU;
 } else { // "OTHER"
 return trial.show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER;
 }
]
</trial>

<text box_clicking_feedback_YOU>
/items = ("<%values.trialType%> earned <%values.obtained_reward%> credits")
/txcolor = red//(0, 0, 0)
/fontstyle = ("Arial", 2%, false, false, false, false, 5, 0)
/position = (50%, 40%)
</text>

<trial show_box_clicking_feedback_YOU>
/stimulusTimes = [0=box_clicking_feedback_YOU]
/timeout = 2000 // displays the message for 2 seconds
</trial>

<text box_clicking_feedback_OTHER>
/items = ("<%values.trialType%> earned <%values.obtained_reward%> credits")
/txcolor = blue//(0, 0, 0)
/fontstyle = ("Arial", 2%, false, false, false, false, 5, 0)
/position = (50%, 40%)
</text>

<trial show_box_clicking_feedback_OTHER>
/stimulusTimes = [0=box_clicking_feedback_OTHER]
/timeout = 2000 // displays the message for 2 seconds
</trial>

// Block containing one full trial -- BoxClick_Trial --> Show_Feedback
//<block Full_Trial>
/// trials = [1=BoxClick_Trial; 2=Show_Feedback]
//</block>

//<page feedback>
//^<%values.trialType%>
//^<%values.obtained_reward%>
//</page>

// Stores the order of the 24 trial types -- YOU or OTHER
<list trialTypeList>
/ selectionMode = sequence
</list>

// Stores the order in which the effort/reward pairs will be presented in the 12 YOU trials
<list YOU_eff_rewList>
/ selectionMode = sequence
</list>

// Stores the order in which the effort/reward pairs will be presented in the 12 OTHER trials
<list OTHER_eff_rewList>
/ selectionMode = sequence
</list>

<text effort_option>
/ items = ("<%values.effortCredits%> credits for <%values.effortBoxes%> boxes")
/ hPosition = values.effortX
/ vPosition = 40%
/ fontStyle = ("arial", 12pt)
/ size = (15%, 10%)
/ vJustify = center
/ txBGColor = lightGray
</text>

<text rest_option>
/ items = ("1 credit for Rest")
/ hPosition = values.restX
/ vPosition = 40%
/ fontStyle = ("arial", 12pt)
/ size = (15%, 10%)
/ vJustify = center
/ txBGColor = lightGray
</text>

<text center_label>
/ items = ("<%values.trialType%>") // this is the label that should be used in the exp!
// items = ("<%values.eff_rew%>") // testing the list selection!
/ position = (50%, 30%)
/ txColor = values.c_colorname
/ fontStyle = ("arial", 16pt, true)
</text>

<list trialType>
/ items = ("YOU", "OTHER")
/ poolsize = parameters.num_trials
/ selectionmode = random
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

// This list contains all effort (4) x reward (3) = 12 combinations for the YOU trials
// It will be used to to sample --once-- all the 12 combinations
<list eff_rew_YOU>
/ items = ("e1_r1", "e1_r2", "e1_r3", "e2_r1", "e2_r2", "e2_r3", "e3_r1", "e3_r2", "e3_r3", "e4_r1", "e4_r2", "e4_r3")
/ poolsize = parameters.num_trials/2
/ replace = false
/ selectionmode = random
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

// Likewise for the OTHER trials
<list eff_rew_OTHER>
/ items = ("e1_r1", "e1_r2", "e1_r3", "e2_r1", "e2_r2", "e2_r3", "e3_r1", "e3_r2", "e3_r3", "e4_r1", "e4_r2", "e4_r3")
/ poolsize = parameters.num_trials/2
/ replace = false
/ selectionmode = random
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

<list x>
/ items = (35%, 65%)
/ selectionrate = always
</list>

[/quote]

The /branch obviously ought to be in the <surveyPage>. Once the <trial> has /branches to the <surveypage>, the <trial> is over. It cannot then somehow /branch to yet another thing after the <surveypage>. The <surveypage> has to /branch.

Moving things around between /onTrialEnd and /barnch will not change a thing about this. /onTrialEnd attributes are for executing logic (performing calculations, etc.) at the end of a trial. They are executed in the order given top to bottom. You cannot "return" a trial from /onTrialEnd, that is not what it's for.
/branch is for dynamically deciding where to go next after the trial.