What is an example of a closed-ended question?

• A. Can you describe your symptoms?
• B. What could have caused your condition?
• C. Are you having trouble breathing?
• D. How did the incident occur?

Answer: (C)

A closed-ended question is designed to yield a specific, often brief response, typically a "yes" or "no," or another limited answer. The example provided — asking if someone is having trouble breathing — is an effective closed-ended question because it seeks a direct response regarding the person's current condition without requiring further elaboration.

In contrast, open-ended questions such as those regarding symptom descriptions, causes, or incident details encourage more comprehensive answers and responses. They invite the respondent to share information in a narrative form, which can lead to more in-depth discussions and insights into the situation. Closed-ended questions serve a valuable purpose, particularly in clinical settings, as they help to quickly assess a patient's condition while gathering essential information without overwhelming the conversation.