A pilot test is a method used to test the design and/or methods and/or instrument prior

to carrying out the research. Can be small, 3-5, since the purpose is not to collect data
but to reIine your process and/or instrument.
Pilot testing involves conducting a preliminary test oI data collection tools and
procedures to identiIy and eliminate problems, allowing programs to make corrective
changes or adjustments beIore actually collecting data Irom the target population.
This eIIective practice describes advantages oI pilot testing, lists simple procedures to
pilot test instruments, and provides additional resources to help programs conduct
their own pilot tests.
A pilot test usually involves simulating the actual data collection process on a small
scale to get Ieedback on whether or not the instruments are likely to work as expected
in a "real world" situation. A typical pilot test involves administering instruments to a
small group oI individuals that has similar characteristics to the target population, and
in a manner that simulates how data will be collected when the instruments are
administered to the target population.
Pilot testing gives programs an opportunity to make revisions to instruments and data
collection procedures to ensure that appropriate questions are being asked, the right
data will be collected, and the data collection methods will work. Programs that
neglect pilot testing run the risk oI collecting useless data.
Pilot testing provides an opportunity to detect and remedy a wide range oI potential
problems with an instrument. These problems may include:
O "uestions that respondents don't understand
O Ambiguous questions
O "uestions that combine two or more issues in a single question (double-
barreled questions)
O "uestions that make respondents uncomIortable
Pilot testing can also help, iI respondents show Iatigue while completing the
instrument, then the program should look Ior ways to shorten the instrument. II
respondents are conIused about how to return the completed instrument, then the
program needs to clariIy instructions and simpliIy this process.