A Semantic Differential question is often used to gauge people's opinions when comparing two polarising words or phrases. You can present two options, one on the left of the scale and the other on the right. These are separated by a number of radial buttons (how many is up to you). The respondent would then select the radial button that most closely reflects their strength of feeling between the two options. For example, you may offer choices from Good through to Bad, or High through to Low.
This is a very effective way to gauge preferences or opinions.
Creating a Semantic Differential Question
To create your Semantic Differential question:
- Click Add Question on your survey.
- Type your question in the Question Text field.
- In the Question Type drop-down menu, select Semantic Differential.
- In the Row Choices field, type the text that will appear on the left-hand side of the selection radio buttons, followed by the pipe symbol. On the right-hand side of the pipe symbol, enter the text to appear on the right-hand side of the radio buttons (for example, left-text|right-text). Ensure each one is typed on its own line.
- In the Column Choices field, type the text that will appear horizontally across the top of the selection radio buttons. Ensure each one is typed on its own line.
- Click the green Add Question button to add the question to your survey.
Customising a Semantic Differential Question
When you build a Semantic Differential question, you can customise it with the following additional fields and options:
| Add Comment field |
Adds a free text field underneath the question. |
| Require an Answer to this Question |
Forces the respondent to select an answer before they can progress to the next page. |
| Randomise, Sort or Flip Answer Choices |
Lets you control the order that the answers are presented: randomly, in alphabetical order, and so on. |
| Question Size and Positioning |
Lets you control the size, positioning, appearance and numbering of your question. You can also set a default answer, and hide the question without deleting it.
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