What is a pilot study? How is it conducted?

Before conducting the actual survey, it is advisable to conduct a pilot study the questionnaire and survey plan. A pilot study is a small-scale version of the actual survey; in essence, it is a form of user testing. Researchers select a few people to use as testers and have them take their survey to identify unclear questions, technological glitches, or other problems. Based on the results, they modify their questionnaire and working plan. Including this step in their survey planning helps them avoid the disappointment (and cost) that results from administering a flawed survey.