Data collection methods – UGC NET Question

Statement D is wrong because no single method can be assumed to answer all research questions adequately in every context. Different questions may require different kinds of data and perspectives. Statements A, B, C and E are correct: interviews provide depth, questionnaires can reach large samples, observation records behaviour in context and multiple methods can triangulate findings. Thus, D alone contradicts good methodological practice.

Option A:
Option A is correct because it isolates D as the only statement that misrepresents data collection practice. It accepts that diverse tools have complementary strengths and that combining them can increase credibility. This option is consistent with the idea of methodological pluralism in research.

Option B:
Option B is incorrect because it adds A to the list of wrong statements, even though A correctly describes the strength of interviews in capturing rich experiential data. Misclassifying A as wrong underestimates the value of qualitative interviewing.

Option C:
Option C is also wrong because it treats C and D as jointly wrong, despite C correctly stating that observation can capture natural behaviour. By labelling observation as incorrect, this option ignores a fundamental method in field research.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect because it groups B with D and E and thereby mislabels B and E as wrong. Both B and E are accurate descriptions of how questionnaires and multiple methods function in research, so their inclusion among “wrong” statements makes this option invalid.