Common Question Pitfalls

Don't ask, Don't tell

delve into emotional areas that the respondent may be incapable of addressing

Guessing Game

Trying to guess info instead of asking for it ex) "Was the scene pretty terrible?"

Tell Me Everything

Extremely open; no restrictions/guidelines ex) "Tell me about yourself."

Complexity vs. SImplicity

Overly complex, challenge respondents to figure out what you want

Leading Push

Suggests how person ought to respond ex) "Im going to the exam help session, aren't you?" "You haven't had a physical for over SIX YEARS?"

Double-barreled inquisition

Ask 2+ questions at same time ex) "How was your flight and how did you like the National Park?"

Open-to-closed switch

Ask open question but rephrase into closed/bi-polar ex) "Tell me about your trip. Did you have problems with the language?"

Yes (No) Response

Ask question with only one obvious answer ex) (asked of an applicant) "Do you think you're qualified for this position?

Quiz show

Asking for info in confusing ways to test knowledge

Curious probe

Asking for info you don't need

Bipolar Trap

Question elicits yes/no answer when you really want detailed info Obvious in Q's that begin w/ Do you, did you, are you, have you, can you Ex) "Have you experienced any unusual pains?" "Are you in good health?" "Any concerns?"