How to...write and analyse a questionnaire

Questionnaires are used in a wide range of settings to gather information about the opinions and behaviour of individuals. As with any other branch of science, the validity and reliability of the measurement tool, i.e. the questionnaire, needs to be rigorously tested to ensure that the data collected is meaningful. The design and method of administration of a questionnaire will also influence the response rate that is achieved and the quality of data that is collected. This paper discusses the issues that should be considered when designing and undertaking a questionnaire study.