Framework
Five types of probing questions
Follow-up techniques for research interviews
Probing questions are the follow-ups that take an interview beneath the surface. This framework lists five types: clarification, elaboration, contrast, silence and echo, with the moment each one fits. Researchers can keep it as a reference card during interviews, and teams can use it to train new interviewers. Koji applies the same clarification and elaboration logic automatically in AI-moderated interviews.
Where this appears
What's in this framework
- Clarification probe: For vague answers or jargon: confirm exactly what they mean.
- Elaboration probe: For answers that are interesting but brief: ask for detail and examples.
- Contrast probe: For preferences: compare against alternatives to learn why.
- Silence: Pause for three to five seconds and let them keep going.
- Echo probe: Repeat their last few words with a questioning tone.
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<a href="https://www.koji.so/visuals/probing-question-types-framework"><img src="https://www.koji.so/visuals/probing-question-types-framework/probing-question-types-framework.png" alt="Framework of five probing question types for interviews: clarification, elaboration, contrast, silence and echo probes, each with when to use it." width="1080" height="1080" /></a>
<p>Source: <a href="https://www.koji.so/visuals/probing-question-types-framework">Five types of probing questions</a>, Koji</p>
