Question phrasing: The way questions are phrased is important and there are some general rules for constructing good questions in a questionnaire.
Use short and simple sentences
Short, simple sentences are generally less confusing and ambiguous than long, complex ones. As a rule of thumb, most sentences should contain one or two clauses.
Ask for only one piece of information at a time
For example, “Please rate the lecture in terms of its content and presentation” asks for two pieces of information at the same time. It should be divided into two parts: “Please rate the lecture in terms of (a) its content, (b) its presentation.”
Avoid negatives if possible
Negatives should be used only sparingly. For example, instead of asking students whether they agree with the statement, “Small group teaching should not be abolished,” the statement should be rephrased as, “Small group teaching should continue.” Double negatives should always be avoided.
Ask precise questions
Questions may be ambiguous because a word or term may have a different meaning.
Level of details
It is important to ask for the exact level of details required. On the one hand, you might not be able to fulfill the purposes of the survey if you omit to ask essential details. On the other hand, it is important to avoid unnecessary details. People are less inclined to complete long questionnaires. This is particularly important for confidential sensitive information, such as personal financial matters or marital relationship issues.
Minimize bias
People tend to answer questions in a way they perceive to be socially desired or expected by the questioner and they often look for clues in the questions
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