1.) when you move to a new frame.. all previous data/code is gone/lost...

this is why many people suggest nesting or creating a movieClip on the MAIN timeline to switch back from frame 1 (combobox) to frame 2 (answer field).. and NOT do this on the MAIN timeline.. (leaving your MAIN timeline only 1 frame long)

if you keep your code on the MAIN timeline.. and use the code there to control your child movieClip (made of your 2 frames).. you can ALWAYS access the code and variables on the _parent or MAIN timeline.. no matter what frame your child clip is on.

If you understand this part so far.. the rest is EASY PEASY!... and I'll write a quick example for you.. =)

let me know

take care