Final answer:
For a Likert scale with a long list of items, it is better to list answers vertically for each consecutive item, include instructions for selecting an answer, and avoid separating questions and answers onto different pages.
Step-by-step explanation:
When using a Likert scale with a long list of items, it is widely considered better practice to list the answers vertically for each consecutive item. This facilitates easier comparison and consistency in answering each item. Arranging answers horizontally in abbreviated form can work, but sometimes it may confuse respondents, especially if the list is long. It is important to include instructions on how to select an answer, as this provides clarity to respondents on what is expected from them. Finally, listing all questions on one page and all answers on another is not advisable as it can overcomplicate the survey-taking process, leading to lower response rates or increased errors. Thus, b) List the answers vertically, for each consecutive item, is the recommended approach for structuring a Likert scale.
It is important to remember that Likert scales are meant to measure attitudes or opinions across a range, hence clarity and ease of use for the respondent are paramount. Proper alignment and coherence throughout the survey can contribute to the effectiveness of the instrument and the reliability of the collected data.