Annual Employee Survey Template Page 24
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APPENDIX A
Writing Good Survey Questions*
If an agency chooses to add items to the group of required items some suggestions for writing
good survey questions are provided below. The items in the regulation are required to be asked
by each agency as stated in the regulation (i.e., no word replacements, no revisions). However,
agencies can also add items dealing with their own programs and initiatives.
1)
Consider various response scales and choose the most appropriate one. Here are a few
possibilities:
• Strongly Disagree to Strongly Agree
• Very Unfavorable to Very Favorable
• Poor to Excellent
• Very Dissatisfied to Very Satisfied
• No Extent to A Very Great Extent
When selecting a scale, use equal numbers of positive and negative categories (e.g., two
positive and two negative with one neutral). In addition, distinguish undecided and
neutral, and, if offering it, place the “undecided” or “no opinion” at the end of the scale.
2)
Consider question structure when developing the item. Open-ended items are more
difficult to analyze and may not yield adequate answers. Close-ended items, where
responses are provided, are easier to answer.
3)
Simplify the sentence and word structure. Aside from shortening the sentence length, the
most effective way to increase readability is to simplify the word structure. Simple words
are preferable, provided they express the idea clearly.
4)
Reduce the complexity of ideas and present them one at a time.
5)
Do not use abstract words, or words that convey general or broad meanings or
relationships. Make questions concise, direct and keep the number of words to a
minimum.
6)
Keep the use of technical language to a minimum. Keep in mind words you know may
not be familiar to your audience. Words used should express the exact meaning that is
intended, and the respondents must know that meaning.
U.S. Office of Personnel Management
November 2008
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