Ask Good Questions and Get Better Answers

Creative

September 18, 2022

What is the purpose of a question and what makes a good question?

The purpose of a question is to elicit information. The type of question will determine the amount and quality of the information received. There are three types of questions: closed, leading, and open.

  • A closed question can be answered with a simple “yes” or “no.” They provide little room for elaboration or opinion.

  • Leading questions are those that are loaded with assumptions or suggest a particular answer. For example, “Isn’t she annoying?” implies that the person being asked finds the subject of the question annoying.

  • The third type of question is an open-ended question. This type of question allows for more elaborate answers and provides an opportunity for dialogue. Open-ended questions begin with words like “what,” “how,” and “why.”

A good question is one that is clear, concise, and relevant to the purpose at hand. It should also be neutral and avoid loaded language. Good questions help to facilitate discussion, promote critical thinking, and generate new ideas.

How can you ask better questions to get better answers from others – including coworkers, family members, and friends?

Asking questions is an essential part of everyday life – whether you’re trying to get directions from a stranger or gather feedback from a friend. However, not all questions are created equal. If you want to get the best possible answers from others, it’s important to ask the right kind of questions. Broad, open-ended questions are often more effective than yes-or-no questions, since they encourage the person you’re speaking to provide more information. Additionally, avoid asking leading questions that can be answered with a simple yes or no; instead, try to ask neutral questions that require more thought. By taking the time to craft well-thought-out questions, you can encourage others to provide more helpful and informative answers.