Question

Which of the following statements is not a disadvantage of structured questions?

• A. Coding and processing of data are much less costly and time consuming.
• B. Considerable effort is required to design effective multiple-choice questions.
• C. Showing respondents the list of possible answers produces biased responses.
• D. It is difficult to obtain information on alternatives not listed.

Hint:

Structured questions are quick to code and analyze — one of their major strengths.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Recall the nature of structured questions.
They are fixed-response, making coding easy and analysis faster — this is actually an advantage, not a disadvantage.
Step 2: Review real disadvantages.
- (b) Requires careful design to cover all possible responses clearly.
- (c) Pre-listed options can bias answers (framing effect).
- (d) Limits ability to capture unexpected answers.
Step 3: Identify the “not a disadvantage” option.
- (a) describes an advantage, so it is correct here. \[ \boxed{(a)} \]