Multiple Lines (Essay) question type
About the Multiple Lines (Essay) question type
With the Multiple Lines (Essay) question type, respondents can enter a longer, freely worded answer across several lines. This question type is especially well suited to:
- Open feedback or suggestions for improvement
- Detailed opinions
- Comments, explanations or individual testimonials
- Follow-up questions that explain closed-ended answers
Typical use cases:
- “What suggestions do you have for improving what we offer?”
- “Please describe your experiences with the product so far.”
- “Is there anything else you'd like to tell us?”
- “Do you have any comments or suggestions for improving the help articles on QUESTIONSTAR?”
Settings for the Multiple Lines question type
The following options are available in the settings panel:
Minimum Length
Specifies the minimum number of characters the answer must contain.
If the question is mandatory, respondents can't leave the questionnaire page before they've entered the defined minimum number.
Useful for:- Testimonials
- Error reports
- Feedback where a brief answer isn't enough
Maximum Length
Limits the maximum length of the text entry.
This feature is especially useful when you…- prefer compact feedback
- want to avoid unnecessary rambling
- Show character counter
Displays below the input field how many characters have already been entered — or how many are still available (if a limit is set).
This feature creates transparency and helps respondents gauge for themselves how long their answer is. - Initial value
Optional: text already entered that appears in the input field when the survey loads.
Example: carrying over a value from a previous question via piping
👉 Reuse answers with piping
This could be, for example, an answer from a previous Multiple Choice question or a personal default text. - Field Placeholder
A gray hint text in the input field that isn't saved and disappears automatically as soon as the respondent starts typing.
Example: “Space for your wishes, ideas, comments”
Use placeholder text as a friendly prompt or for contextual guidance.
Example of an essay question
The following question invites open feedback — for instance at the end of a questionnaire: