Evidence-Based Survey Design: The Use of Continuous Rating Scales in Surveys

When practitioners and researchers develop structured surveys, they may use Likert-type discrete rating scales or continuous rating scales. When administering surveys via the web, it is important to assess the value of using continuous rating scales such as visual analog scales (VASs) or sliders. Our close examination of the literature on the effectiveness of the two types of rating scales showed both benefits and drawbacks. Many studies recommended against using sliders due to functional difficulties that cause low response rates.