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Chapter 3 · Questionnaire · Slide 86/274

Avoid Ambiguity, Confusion and Vagueness

Formulate the question in terms of who, what, when, where, why and how. Especially important: who, what, when, where.

3.1 · Asking Questions Rule 1 · Ambiguity, Confusion, Vagueness

Avoid Ambiguity, Confusion and Vagueness


i

The six W's

Formulate the question in terms of who, what, when, where, why and how. Especially important: who, what, when, where.

Signpost with Who, What, Where, When, Why, How
Example
"Which brand of shampoo do you use?"
Ask instead
"Which brand or brands of shampoo have you personally used at home during the past month? If you have used more than one, please name all of them."
QUESTIONSTAR · Dr. Paul Marx 86 / 274
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