Which statement best describes closed questions?

Which statement best describes closed questions?

• A. They typically elicit yes/no responses or specific factual information
• B. They require extended narrative responses
• C. They are used to build rapport by warmth
• D. They are used only after rapport is established

Answer: (A)

Closed questions are questions that aim for precise, brief answers—often yes or no, or a short factual response. In counseling, they’re useful when you need to confirm details, check safety, or obtain specific information about symptoms, dates, medications, or events. They help you gather concrete data quickly and keep the session focused on essential facts before you move on to deeper exploration. While closed questions are great for fact-finding, they don’t invite the client to share their thoughts in depth. Open-ended questions, which invite a broader narrative, are typically better for building rapport and exploring feelings, perspectives, and experiences. And closed questions aren’t restricted to a particular moment in the session; they can be used whenever you need to verify information, not only after rapport has been established.

Closed questions are questions that aim for precise, brief answers—often yes or no, or a short factual response. In counseling, they’re useful when you need to confirm details, check safety, or obtain specific information about symptoms, dates, medications, or events. They help you gather concrete data quickly and keep the session focused on essential facts before you move on to deeper exploration.

While closed questions are great for fact-finding, they don’t invite the client to share their thoughts in depth. Open-ended questions, which invite a broader narrative, are typically better for building rapport and exploring feelings, perspectives, and experiences. And closed questions aren’t restricted to a particular moment in the session; they can be used whenever you need to verify information, not only after rapport has been established.