Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Practice Exam

What best describes a closed question?

1. A question that invites open-ended responses

2. A question with a single correct answer

3. A question with limited responses, typically yes or no

4. A question requiring detailed explanation

The correct answer is: A question with limited responses, typically yes or no

A closed question is characterized by its limited response options, which typically require a straightforward answer such as "yes" or "no." This type of question is designed to elicit specific information and is useful when the goal is to obtain clear, concise responses that can be easily quantified. For instance, in a dietary management context, a closed question can help determine straightforward facts, such as whether a patient has any dietary restrictions. This allows for quicker decision-making and assessment, as the responses are directed and do not require elaboration. Other types of questions, such as open-ended or those requiring detailed explanations, provide greater freedom for the respondent to elaborate, which is not the intention of a closed question. Additionally, closed questions do not invite varied possibilities like open-ended questions do, as they are structured to obtain factual and direct responses. This makes closed questions particularly effective in data collection and analysis processes within dietary management settings.