I. Clarity & Simplicity:

Use Simple Language: Avoid jargon, technical terms, or complex vocabulary.
Keep Questions Short: Concise questions are easier to understand.
One Idea Per Question: Avoid "double-barreled" questions (e.g., "Do you like the product and its price?").
Be Specific: Avoid vague terms; define what you're asking about (e.g., instead of "often," use "2-3 times a week").

II. Unbiased & Neutrality:

Avoid Leading Questions: Don't suggest a preferred answer (e.g., "Don't you agree that...?").
Avoid Loaded Questions: Don't use emotionally charged words or imply judgment.
Offer Balanced Options: For multiple-choice, ensure all reasonable options are available, and responses cover the full spectrum.
Don't Assume: Don't assume respondents have specific knowledge or experiences.

III. Respondent Focus & Ease of Response:

Relevant Questions Only: Every question should directly serve your research objectives.
Logical Flow: Group related questions and progress logically from general to specific.
Easy to Answer: Use appropriate question types (multiple-choice, scales, open-ended) for the information sought.
Include "N/A" or "Prefer Not to Say" (if applicable): Allows respondents to opt out of sensitive or irrelevant questions.
Consider Respondent Burden: Keep the questionnaire length reasonable to avoid fatigue and drop-offs.
Pre-test/Pilot Test: Always test the questionnaire on a small group to catch ambiguities, confusing phrasing, or technical issues.

IV. Data Collection & Analysis Considerations:

Measurable Responses: Ensure questions yield data that can be easily coded and analyzed.
Exhaustive & Mutually Exclusive Options: For closed-ended questions, ensure options cover all possibilities without overlap.
Clear Instructions: Provide clear directions for how to answer each section or question.
Demographics at End (Usually): Place sensitive demographic questions at the end to build rapport first.

V. Ethical Considerations:

Informed Consent: Clearly state the purpose of the study, confidentiality, and voluntary participation.
Anonymity/Confidentiality: Explain how responses will be protected.
No Coercion: Ensure respondents feel no pressure to participate.