When conducting a questionnaire survey, how to choose the appropriate type of questions?

Appropriate questionnaire question selection depends primarily on research objectives and the type of data required for analysis. The chosen formats must align directly with the study's goals to yield valid, reliable, and analyzable data. Key principles involve matching question format to purpose. Closed-ended questions (e.g., multiple-choice, Likert scales) efficiently gather standardized quantitative data suitable for statistical analysis when answer options are known and finite, aiding clear categorization and comparison. Open-ended questions are necessary to explore complex opinions, uncover unexpected insights, or gather qualitative detail, though they require more effort in coding and analysis. Consider the construct being measured; nominal data demands categorical choices, ordinal data suits rating scales, while interval/ratio data might require precise numerical entry. Demographics often employ closed-ended formats for efficiency. Careful phrasing avoids ambiguity, leading questions, and ensures accessibility to the target population. Initiate question selection by explicitly defining research aims and identifying the specific variables needed. Map each variable to the most suitable question format: employ multiple-choice for demographics and factual items, Likert scales for attitude strength, rank ordering for preferences, and open-ended for exploratory depth or nuanced understanding. Explicitly design questions to elicit only the required data complexity. Precisely pilot test questions with a small representative sample to assess clarity, interpretation, and feasibility, refining formats based on feedback to optimize data collection effectiveness prior to full deployment.