A questionnaire is one of the most widely used tools in research for collecting data directly from people.
It consists of a set of written questions that are given to respondents, who then provide answers based
on their own experiences, opinions, or knowledge. These answers are then used by researchers as
primary data for analysis.
According to Krishan Kumar (1992), a questionnaire is a written document that lists a series of questions
related to the research topic.
Types of Questionnaires
There are different types of questionnaires used in research:
1. Structured Questionnaire
A structured questionnaire is a type where all the questions are already planned and written in a fixed
order. Every person who answers it gets the same questions in the same format. The language used is
clear and simple so that everyone understands it the same way. This type of questionnaire is often used
in large surveys where the researcher wants to get information that can be easily counted or measured.
For example, if a researcher wants to know how many students use the college library every week, a
structured questionnaire is best. It saves time, gives quick results, and is easy to analyze using numbers.
But the main limitation is that it does not allow people to explain their answers in detail.
2. Unstructured Questionnaire
An unstructured questionnaire does not follow a fixed format. The researcher may ask different
questions to different people, depending on how the conversation goes. This type is used when the aim
is to understand people’s opinions, emotions, or personal experiences. The answers are written in the
person’s own words, and there is more freedom to explain. For example, if a researcher wants to know
how a patient feels about their hospital treatment, an unstructured questionnaire would be better. This
method is helpful in qualitative research, where deep understanding is needed. But it is harder to
analyze, because people give very different types of answers.
3. Close-Ended Questionnaire
A close-ended questionnaire contains questions that have ready-made answer options. The respondent
has to choose from the given choices. For example, a question like “How often do you use the library?”
may offer options like (a) Daily (b) Weekly (c) Monthly (d) Never. This type is used when the researcher
wants to collect information that is easy to count and compare. It is useful for quantitative studies,
where the focus is on numbers. The biggest advantage is that it saves time and is easy to analyze. But
the problem is that it limits the respondent’s answers. Sometimes, the right answer is not included in
the options.
4. Open-Ended Questionnaire
An open-ended questionnaire allows people to write their answers in their own words. There are no
fixed choices. For example, a question like “What suggestions do you have to improve our college
canteen?” allows people to express their views freely. This type is used when the researcher wants to
know what people really think or feel. It gives rich and detailed information, which helps in
understanding complex issues.
Main Aspects of the Questionnaire Method
The questionnaire method is a useful way of collecting information from people using written questions.
To make a good questionnaire, researchers must carefully plan several important aspects. These are
explained below in simple terms:
1. General Format (Structured or Unstructured)
The first thing to decide is whether the questionnaire will be structured or unstructured.
A structured questionnaire has fixed questions in a set order.
An unstructured questionnaire allows the researcher to ask flexible or changing questions.
Structured forms are best for collecting measurable data, while unstructured forms are used when
detailed personal opinions are needed.
3. Wording and Clarity
The questions should be written in simple and clear language. The researcher should avoid confusing
words, emotional language, or technical terms. Each question should focus on only one idea and be easy
to understand by all types of respondents.
4. Order and Sequence of Questions
Questions should be arranged in a logical order—starting with general, easy questions and moving to
more specific or personal ones. Related questions should be grouped together. A smooth flow helps the
respondent stay interested and answer correctly.
5. Layout and Design
The questionnaire should look neat, clean, and easy to follow. Questions should be numbered properly,
and space should be provided for answers. For online or printed forms, a good design encourages
people to complete the form fully.
6. Pretesting (Pilot Testing)
Before using the questionnaire for actual data collection, it should be pretested on a small group. This
helps find any confusing questions or errors. Based on feedback, the researcher can improve the
questionnaire.
7. Covering Letter (For Mailed/Online Forms)
If the questionnaire is sent by mail or email, it should include a covering letter. This letter explains the
purpose of the survey, assures confidentiality, and asks the respondent for their cooperation.
Advantages of Questionnaire Method
The questionnaire method has many good points, which is why it is widely used in research. First, it
helps collect information from many people quickly and easily, even if they live in different places. This
makes it very useful for large surveys.
Second, it is a low-cost method. Sending a questionnaire, especially online, saves time and money
compared to interviews or other face-to-face methods. Researchers can send it by post, email, or use
websites like Google Forms.
Third, people can fill the questionnaire at their own time and comfort. Because they are not under
pressure, they may give more honest answers, especially on private or sensitive topics.
Limitations of Questionnaire Method
Even though questionnaires are useful, they also have some problems. One big issue is the low response
rate. Many people don’t return the form or skip questions, which makes the results less reliable.
Second, since there is no personal contact, the researcher cannot explain the questions or see how the
respondent is feeling. If someone misunderstands a question, they may give a wrong answer, and the
researcher won’t know.
Third, if the questionnaire uses difficult language or technical terms, people may get confused and not
answer correctly. It is also not suitable for people who can’t read well or do not understand the
language used.
Conclusion
The questionnaire is a useful and flexible method for collecting information from large groups. When
designed clearly and tested properly, it provides reliable data in a simple and cost-effective way. Though
it has some limitations, it remains one of the most widely used tools in research across many fields.
