How do open-ended questions differ from closed-ended questions in surveys?

Open-ended questions are designed to elicit information in the respondents' own words, allowing them the freedom to express their thoughts, feelings, and insights without being confined to a set of predefined options. This type of question encourages deeper, more qualitative feedback because respondents can provide nuanced answers that may not fit within a limited set of responses. It promotes a richer understanding of the survey topic as it captures the subjective experience and perspectives of the respondents, making it especially valuable in qualitative research.

In contrast, closed-ended questions are typically formatted to provide specific, limited response options, thereby restricting the level of detail and personal expression that can be shared. This format is better for collecting quantitative data but lacks the depth and personal insight that open-ended questions can provide.