Open and Close-Ended Questions

Questions are close-ended with a YES or NO for an answer. At times, they have simple responses, without any need to elaborate further.

However, some questions are open-ended and need elaborate answers.

Identify the questions given below as open-ended or close-ended

1. Do you like chocolates?

Answer explanation

This is a close-ended question. The answer is

Yes, I like chocolates.

OR

No, I don't like chocolates.

2. Would you like to stay here or get back home?

Answer explanation

This answer has a direct response:

Well, I would love to stay here tonight.

OR

Hmmm. I'm sorry, I have to get back before 7pm.

It is a close-ended question.

How do leaves get their green colour?

Answer explanation

This answer needs an explanation-

Chlorophyll present in the plant cells gives them their green color because it does not absorb the green wavelengths of white light.

It is an open-ended question

4. How did you meet your best friend?

Answer explanation

This is an open-ended question as there can be various possibilities such as-

Well, we have been studying together since our kindergarten. OR

Oh, it just happened by chance. OR

Hmm....we were neighbours at..... OR

Oh, yeah, he lives in the same neighbourhood as I do...

Will you please go inside?

Answer explanation

This is a close-ended question. The answer is a Yes, I will go in right away

OR

No, I want to be here for some more time.

6. Can you share your lunch with me?

Answer explanation

The answer is-

Yes, I definitely can

OR

I'm sorry, I can't

It is a close-ended question.

7. Are you planning to become an architect?

Answer explanation

This is a direct answer-

Yes, I plan to become an architect.

OR

No, I wish to become an astronaut.

It is a close-ended question.

8. What do you plan to do after you graduate from college?

Answer explanation

This is an open-ended question are there are several possible answers -

Well, I plan to take up employment soon after my graduation.

OR

Oh, yeah, I want to pursue my post-graduation overseas.

OR

I want to take a break and travel around the world.

There are other possible answers too....

9. Do you like to spend time outdoors?

Answer explanation

This is an example of a close-ended question.

The answer is -

Yes, of course, I love spending time in the midst of Nature.

OR

Not really, I prefer cozying up with a book.

10. What skills and abilities qualify you for this position?

Answer explanation

This is an open-ended question and the job-aspirant has to clearly explain the skills sets he/she possesses that makes him/her suitable for the position....for example:

I am a good communicator, I can present my ideas clearly and effectively.

Besides, I am a good team worker...