Closed questioning techniques involve asking questions that usually receive a single word or very short, factual answer. They are designed to gather specific, limited information quickly.
Characteristics of Closed Questions
- Limited Responses: The answers are usually confined to "yes," "no," a specific name, date, or other single-word or brief response.
- Factual Focus: Closed questions aim to collect concrete, objective data rather than opinions or feelings.
- Specific Information: They are most effective when you need to pinpoint specific details.
Examples of Closed Questions
| Question | Expected Answer |
|---|---|
| "Are you thirsty?" | "Yes" or "No" |
| "Where do you live?" | "London" or "My address" |
| "Is the report ready?" | "Yes" or "No" |
| "What time is it?" | "3:00 PM" |
| "Did you complete the task?" | "Yes" or "No" |
When to Use Closed Questions
- Gathering Factual Data: Ideal for collecting specific information quickly and efficiently.
- Confirmation: Useful for verifying information or clarifying specific details.
- Controlling Conversation: Helpful when you need to focus the discussion or keep it on track.
- Initial Inquiry: Can be a good starting point before delving into more detailed discussions.
Benefits of Closed Questions
- Efficiency: They elicit quick and straightforward answers.
- Clarity: Responses are generally unambiguous.
- Control: Allows for focused data collection.
Comparison with Open Questions
Unlike closed questions, open questions encourage more detailed responses. They often begin with "what," "why," or "how". Open questions invite a broader range of answers. For instance, "How do you feel about the project?" is an open question because it encourages a more descriptive and personal response.
Practical Insights
- Use closed questions to set a clear direction in a conversation.
- Mix closed questions with open questions to get a balance of information.
- Avoid over-relying on closed questions, which can make discussions feel limited or interrogative.
