Editing How to Ask Survey Questions (section)

== Key Principles for Writing Good Survey Questions ==

=== 1. Be Clear and Specific ===

- Use simple, straightforward language 
- Avoid jargon, acronyms, and complex words
- Ask about one thing at a time (avoid double-barreled questions)
- Be specific rather than general

Example:
Poor: "How would you rate our service?"
Better: "How would you rate the customer service you received on your most recent purchase?"

=== 2. Use Neutral, Unbiased Language ===

- Avoid leading or loaded questions that push respondents toward a particular answer
- Present balanced response options
- Don't make assumptions in your questions

Example:  
Poor: "Don't you agree that our product is the best on the market?"
Better: "How would you rate our product compared to competitors?"

=== 3. Match Question Type to Information Needed ===

- Use closed-ended questions (multiple choice, rating scales, etc.) for quantitative data
- Use open-ended questions for qualitative insights and explanations
- Consider the level of detail required when choosing question formats

=== 4. Provide Clear Instructions ===

- Specify if multiple responses are allowed for multiple choice questions
- Explain rating scales clearly
- Give examples if needed to clarify what you're asking

=== 5. Use Consistent Scales and Response Options ===

- Keep rating scales consistent throughout the survey (e.g. always 1-5 or always 1-7)
- Present response options in a logical order
- Ensure response options are mutually exclusive and exhaustive

=== 6. Consider Question Order and Flow ===

- Start with easier, less sensitive questions
- Group related questions together
- Use skip logic to avoid irrelevant questions

=== 7. Avoid Asking About Multiple Things at Once ===

- Break complex topics into multiple focused questions
- Ask about frequency, satisfaction, importance etc. separately

Example:
Poor: "How satisfied are you with our product quality and customer service?"
Better: "How satisfied are you with our product quality?"
         "How satisfied are you with our customer service?"

=== 8. Include "Don't Know" or "Not Applicable" Options When Relevant ===

- Allow respondents to opt out if they truly can't answer
- This prevents forced or inaccurate responses

=== 9. Pre-test Your Questions ===

- Pilot test with a small group to identify confusing or problematic questions
- Revise based on feedback before launching the full survey