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What are the advantages and disadvantages of using open ended questions?

Like most communication techniques open ended questions work in some contexts, and are counter-productive in others.

Open ended questions are good in situations where both parties want to understand each other, share control of the conversation, listen to each other, and when there is sufficient time for the conversation to allow proper sharing and listening. In situations where time for the conversation is limited, or the conversation is less about understanding each other and more about making a fast decision, close ended questions can be more appropriate.

As with both open and closed ended questions, the technique must be used sincerely and properly, since any kinds of questions, if used poorly can result in the other person feeling like he/she is being cross-examined, attacked or otherwise interrogated.