What is an open-ended question?

An open-ended question is characterized by its ability to elicit detailed responses and encourage discussion. These questions cannot be answered simply with "yes" or "no," which allows the person being questioned to provide their thoughts, feelings, or explanations in their own words. This type of questioning is particularly useful in situations where a deeper understanding is necessary, such as in interviews or assessments where the goal is to gather comprehensive information.

Open-ended questions prompt the respondent to elaborate, thereby offering valuable insights that might not be captured through more restrictive questioning formats. This contrasts with closed-ended questions, which restrict the respondent's answer to very limited choices, often leading to less insightful responses. By focusing on eliciting a narrative or personal perspective, open-ended questions enhance communication and gather richer data.