What Is a Likert Scale?
A Likert scale typically consists of a statement followed by a range of response options. The respondent chooses the option that best reflects their opinion.
You can also use 4-point, 7-point, or even 10-point scales, depending on the research design.
“I feel confident using SPSS to analyze data.”
You selected:
odD vs Even
Odd-numbered
- Includes a neutral/midpoint option.
- Use when you want to allow undecided responses.
Even-numbered
- Forces a leaning decision (no neutral).
- Use when you want respondents to take a stance.
Guidelines for Writing Likert Items ✍️
Statements, not questions
“I enjoy learning research methods.”
“Do you enjoy learning research methods?”
Be clear and specific
Avoid vague or confusing wording. Precision reduces measurement error.
Avoid double-barreled
“I enjoy learning research methods and statistics.”
Split this into two separate items.
Mix Directions
Include both positive and negative items to prevent response bias and acquiescence.
📊 Analyzing Likert Scale Data
Likert responses are typically ordinal, but when summed across multiple items, they are often treated as interval data.
Descriptive Statistics
Mean, Median, Standard Deviation
Inferential Analysis
t-tests, ANOVA, correlation, regression
Reliability Checks
Cronbach’s Alpha
Factor Analysis
EFA/CFA for construct validation
Thesis Presentation Anxiety
“I feel nervous when presenting my thesis in English.”
If a construct like “presentation anxiety” includes 5–10 similar items, researchers can compute a composite score to represent that variable.