How to Preregister a Conjoint Study
Document the design, estimand, exclusions, and analysis before data collection.
The Short Version
Document the design, estimand, exclusions, and analysis before data collection. A practical way to begin is to define the primary outcome and estimand, then finalize attributes, levels, restrictions, and task count. Finish by making sure you upload materials before fielding. The full walkthrough below explains each part in order.
Is This Guide for You?
Researchers using OSF or a preregistration registry.
Follow These Steps
Work through these 6 steps at your own pace. The wording is intentionally practical, and you can return to the checklist at the end when you are ready to review your work.
- Define the primary outcome and estimand.
- Finalize attributes, levels, restrictions, and task count.
- Set exclusion rules.
- Export the design summary.
- Export methods text or preregistration text.
- Upload materials before fielding.
What This Helps You Accomplish
Preregistration helps show that analysis choices were made before seeing outcomes.
A Quick Confidence Check
- Name the primary outcome.
- Specify subgroup tests before fielding.
- Document impossible-profile restrictions.
- Save the launch version.
Common Questions
Can I use this guide if I am new to this?
Yes. Researchers using OSF or a preregistration registry. Follow the steps in order, start with a small test, and use the final checklist before you field or report anything important.
What is the simplest way to get started?
Begin by define the primary outcome and estimand. Next, finalize attributes, levels, restrictions, and task count. You do not need to perfect every setting before running a small preview or pilot.
How do I know when I am ready?
Use the confidence check above. In particular: Name the primary outcome. Specify subgroup tests before fielding. Document impossible-profile restrictions. Save the launch version. When the decision is consequential, keep your study documentation and ask a qualified colleague or methods reviewer to examine the design as well.
Related Guides
Research artifact: sample data, codebook, and scriptsResearch Pathways
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