Introduction

The pilot survey is a critical process in scientific methodology, as it serves as a testing stage prior to the implementation of the main research. Essentially, it is a small-scale sample study applied to individuals whose characteristics are directly related to the research objectives. Its purpose is to identify possible errors, gaps, or ambiguities that could affect the validity and reliability of the research instrument, usually the questionnaire. In this way, the pilot survey ensures that the main study will be conducted with greater accuracy and clarity.

Advantages of the Pilot Survey

Conducting a pilot survey offers multiple benefits to researchers. First, it provides the opportunity to reformulate or improve research questions and hypotheses. At the same time, it helps identify the appropriate population sample, the research field, and allows for testing the data collection tools such as questionnaires, interview guides, or statistical methods.
Furthermore, the pilot survey makes it possible to evaluate the chosen methodology, while also assisting in the detection of potential issues such as unclear wording or misleading sequencing of questions. Another important advantage is that it allows an estimation of the time and costs required for the main study, as well as an assessment of whether the research objectives are feasible. Finally, preliminary results obtained from a pilot survey can be used to secure funding or other forms of institutional support.

Designing and Conducting Pilot Surveys

The questionnaire plays a central role in this process. Its pilot implementation allows the evaluation of how terms are understood, whether the questions are clear, and whether they are acceptable to participants. It examines if the questions lead to the collection of the desired data, if their sequence prevents confusion, and whether the overall length of the questionnaire is appropriate so as not to create fatigue or irritation among respondents.
Regarding sample size, a general rule suggests that the number of participants should be at least equal to the number of questions plus one. For example, in a questionnaire with 30 questions, at least 31 participants are required. Naturally, the larger the sample size, the greater the accuracy of the pilot study’s results.

Problems and Limitations

Although pilot surveys are valuable tools, they are not without disadvantages. The successful completion of a pilot survey does not necessarily guarantee the success of the main research, since the results usually derive from small samples that lack statistical power. This means that predictions based on pilot data may be inaccurate or misleading.
Moreover, some problems may only emerge during a large-scale study. Other limitations may relate to potential contamination of data, as well as financial challenges that might arise. For these reasons, the conclusions of a pilot survey should always be approached with caution and critical thinking.

Conclusions

In sum, the pilot survey constitutes a fundamental stage in the development of a successful research process. It provides valuable insights for improving design, ensuring accurate question formulation, and estimating the necessary resources. While it cannot guarantee the complete success of the main study, it significantly contributes to reducing risks related to validity and reliability of results.
Researchers are encouraged not only to carry out pilot surveys but also to report in detail the improvements that result from them, thereby strengthening transparency and the credibility of the scientific process. Thus, the pilot survey should not be seen merely as a preparatory step but as an essential contribution to the success of any research project.