Question Types

TypeUse WhenExample
Open-endedExploring, depth"What do you think about..."
Closed-endedMeasuring, comparingYes/No, Multiple choice
Rating scaleMeasuring intensity1-5 satisfaction
RankingRelative preferenceRank 1st, 2nd, 3rd

Common Scales

  • Likert: Strongly Disagree to Strongly Agree
  • Semantic Differential: Boring ——— Exciting
  • NPS: 0-10, How likely to recommend

Avoiding Bias

  • Leading questions: Avoid suggesting answer
  • Double-barreled: One question, one topic
  • Order effects: Randomize when possible
  • Social desirability: Anonymous responses

Conclusion

Key Takeaways

  • Match question type to objective
  • Likert, NPS, Semantic are common scales
  • Avoid leading and double-barreled questions
  • Pre-test your survey