> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.talentmap.com/site-faq/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.talentmap.com/site-faq/faq/survey-design/why-does-talentmap-use-a-5-point-rating-scale.md). # Why does TalentMap use a 5-point rating scale? TalentMap recommends using a 5 point Likert response scale that ranges from "Strongly Disagree to Strongly Agree." The scale allows for a neutral response in the middle of the scale, and to provide for enough detail without overwhelming the respondent with choices. We use a five point scale because it is short, easy to understand, economizes on space and it is the most widely used survey scale in employee opinion surveys. Furthermore, research shows there is no significant difference between survey results that used either a 5-point, 7-point or 10-point scale. A recent study in the International Journal of Market Research reported on an experiment where three groups of respondents gave answers on either a 5-point, 7-point or 10-point scale. After this re-scaling procedure, the three scales gave almost identical results. The study reference is: Dawes, John "Do Data Characteristics Change according to the Number of Scale Points Used ? An experiment using 5-point, 7-point and 10-point scales". International Journal of Market Research. Normative (Benchmark) Comparison: In addition to collecting more accurate information in a reliable format, the Likert 5-point scale is one of the most popular scales used for employee survey research. This popularity allows for valid cross-study/survey comparisons. In short, it allows us to compare the score of one company/division to that of another. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://docs.talentmap.com/site-faq/faq/survey-design/why-does-talentmap-use-a-5-point-rating-scale.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.