Stata + Excel
How to Preserve Codes While Translating Survey Labels
Researchers often need readable labels, but they cannot risk changing the codes that published syntax, recodes, and models depend on. That instinct is exactly right.
The safe rule is simple: translate the readable labels, not the coding.
What Should Stay Fixed
- Numeric response values.
- Special missing codes.
- Variable names used in scripts.
- Ordered category structure.
A Safe Translation Workflow
- Inspect existing codes first.
- Translate labels only.
- Preview code-to-label mappings before export.
- Export a translated file with unchanged coding.
Why It Matters
If codes change, frequencies, recodes, and models can shift. If labels change while values stay fixed, your analytical logic remains intact.
Suggested Internal Links
FAQ
Should codes ever change during label translation?
No. Label translation should preserve the original coding.
Can labels change while values stay fixed?
Yes. That is the normal and intended workflow.
Why does this matter for regression work?
Because the coding drives analysis, recodes, and interpretation.
Preview Your Own Dataset
Upload a survey file and preview the first translated code mappings before exporting the full file.
Upload a dataset