Open Questions vs. Closed Questions — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Published on December 17, 2023
Open questions invite elaboration and discussion, while closed questions seek specific, often one-word answers.
Difference Between Open Questions and Closed Questions
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Open questions are designed to encourage a full, meaningful answer using the subject's own knowledge and feelings. They are broad and can lead to in-depth discussions. Closed questions, by contrast, are narrow and can usually be answered with a single word or a short phrase.
When asking open questions, the aim is often to gather as much information as possible. They are exploratory and can reveal deeper insights. Closed questions are used when the questioner is seeking specific, concise information. They are direct and to the point.
Open questions typically begin with words like 'what', 'why', 'how', or 'describe'. They require more thought and more than a simple one-word answer. On the other hand, closed questions often start with 'do', 'is', 'are', or 'have' and can be quickly answered.
In a conversation, open questions can create opportunities for a rich, expansive dialogue. They can be particularly useful in interviews, counseling, and education. Closed questions, conversely, are effective in clarifying points, making decisions, or completing surveys and quizzes.
Using open questions can sometimes lead to unexpected or broad answers, which can be both an advantage and a disadvantage. Closed questions provide clear, concise responses, which can be limiting but also efficient and straightforward.
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Comparison Chart
Answer Length
Long, elaborative
Short, specific
Question Starters
What, why, how, describe
Do, is, are, have
Purpose
To gather information, explore
To confirm, clarify, or conclude
Response Flexibility
High, allows for detailed answers
Low, limited to specific answers
Use Cases
Interviews, counseling, education
Quizzes, decision-making, surveys
Compare with Definitions
Open Questions
Explore feelings and opinions
How do you feel about the new policy?
Closed Questions
Useful in surveys and quizzes
Have you visited Paris?
Open Questions
Facilitate in-depth discussions
What are the implications of this research?
Closed Questions
Often answered with 'yes' or 'no'
Do you like coffee?
Open Questions
Allow for comprehensive answers
Describe your experience studying abroad.
Closed Questions
Elicit short, specific answers
Is it raining outside?
Open Questions
Encourage detailed responses
What are your thoughts on climate change?
Closed Questions
Begin with 'do', 'is', 'are'
Are you attending the meeting?
Open Questions
Begin with 'what', 'how', 'why'
Why do you enjoy painting?
Closed Questions
Confirm or clarify information
Did you send the email?
Common Curiosities
Can open questions start with 'why'?
Yes, 'why' questions are often open and exploratory.
What are open questions used for?
For exploring ideas, opinions, and gaining detailed information.
Do closed questions limit conversation?
Yes, they can limit the depth of responses and conversation.
Can closed questions be answered with 'yes' or 'no'?
Yes, many closed questions can be answered with 'yes' or 'no'.
Are open questions good for interviews?
Yes, they encourage detailed responses and deeper understanding.
Are closed questions quick to answer?
Yes, they typically require brief and specific answers.
Can open questions be ambiguous?
Sometimes, as they allow for broad and varied answers.
Do closed questions begin with 'do' or 'is'?
Yes, they often start with 'do', 'is', 'are', or 'have'.
Do open questions facilitate discussion?
Yes, they often lead to expanded dialogue and exchange of ideas.
Are closed questions good for quizzes?
Yes, they're ideal for quizzes due to their specificity.
Can open questions lead to unexpected insights?
Yes, they often reveal new and unforeseen information.
Are open questions useful in counseling?
Yes, they help in exploring feelings and thoughts deeply.
Are closed questions effective in decision-making?
Yes, they provide clear, concise information for decisions.
Can closed questions confirm facts?
Yes, they're effective in confirming or clarifying facts.
Do open questions require more thought to answer?
Yes, they generally require more reflection and detailed responses.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
