A similarity matrix provides basic data for multidimensional scaling analysis such as MDS and HCA. A
similarity matrix can be obtained through paired comparison methods or sorting tasks. A sorting task is
preferred when the number of item is large. We investigated the traits and constraints of a bounded
sorting task, which is a subcategory of sorting task, in two studies. In Exp. 1, we compared two MDS
planes from different sorting orders, but found no difference in the axis values. In Exp. 2, we compared
two MDS planes from the different item constructions, and found a difference in the interpretation of axis
meaning inherent in item construction. The results of the two studies showed that bounded sorting tasks
produce stable dimensions free from sorting order, and sensible dimensions sensitive to the item
construction. On the basis of these findings some traits and constraints were discussed.