Research Design Connection: Number of Response Options
Simms, Zelazny, Williams and Bernstein studied the optimal number of Likert scale responses options to provide to people answering survey questions. Information on Likert scales was detailed in a press release related to Simms and team’s work; these scales follow a statement and include, “response options of varying intensity and attitude…strongly disagree, disagree, neither agree nor disagree, agree or strongly agree.” Likert scales are frequently used in the course of design-related research projects. The press release issued for work done by the Simms group reports their findings, “Would doubling the number of response options improve accuracy? What about providing fewer options? ‘Six appears to be the magic number,’ says Simms…‘I’m doubtful that there would be evidence that responses beyond six would be that helpful.’ Part of the utility in…an even number of options rather than an odd number, is the elimination of a middle choice…Simms says some respondents use the …
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