How to avoid double-barreled questions in a survey?

Other than double-barreled questions, let’s look at common survey question mistakes to avoid in your survey. While creating the survey and research study questions, double-barreled survey questions are not the only type to avoid. Refrain from asking these questions for the most accurate survey results.

1. Avoid leading questions

Avoid at all costs framing the question in a way that compels the respondent to focus on a certain aspect. Such questions are frequently referred to as biased or leading questions. Answer selection should be entirely up to the respondent.

Because respondents get tired of attempting to figure out answers for questions that are either just difficult to read or overtly biased, biased questions are to blame for high survey dropout rates.

This is why the language of survey questions is crucial since it can affect the respondents, who can then impact the validity of the data gathered. 

❎“How likely is it you would recommend our customer’s favorite digital watch to your friends or families? 

The question may appear like a regular question evaluating the likelihood of a recommendation. However, the term ‘customer’s favorite’ makes it a leading question. It tells the respondent that the ‘digital watch’ is well-liked and pushes them to respond positively. 

Instead, ask 

✅ How likely are you to recommend our digital watch to your friends and families?

2. Avoid loaded questions

Loaded or assumptive questions are another “survey don’t” along with double-barreled questions. It makes assumptions about the survey respondent, forcing them to select an answer they may disagree with.

Here’s an example:

❎ From where do you like to buy product X?

The issue with responding to a question like this is that it presupposes the person likes the product. However, many people don’t like or want it, so they can’t honestly respond to the question.

Pre-test your survey to ensure that every question includes a response that will encourage the respondent to provide an honest response.

Instead of asking the question above, ask this: 

✅Q. Do you like the product?

• Yes 
• No

Depending on the responses from the respondents, the skip logic tool can assist you in focusing on the survey questions.

3. Avoid absolute questions

Absolute questions put respondents in a difficult position where they cannot provide helpful feedback. Typically, these questions feature a Yes/No response option as well as words like “always,” “all,” “ever,” and “never.”

❎“Do you regularly buy cosmetics from our store?”

Most respondents would be compelled to state no in the scenario above directly. The question is strict, making it impossible to respond. Giving them several options is the best approach to a question like this.

✅Q. How many times do you visit our store to purchase cosmetics?

• Once a week
• More than once a week
• Every other week
• I don’t visit your store
• Self-response____