How To Ask Good Lie Detector Questions

One of the biggest mistakes people make with lie detector tests is asking the wrong questions. A polygraph is only as effective as the questions being asked, and vague or poorly worded questions can make the results meaningless. Questions need to be clear, specific, and focused on a single issue, not broad accusations or emotional assumptions. When people try to ask too many questions or ask things that cannot be answered with a simple yes or no, the test loses its value. Taking the time to properly structure the questions is often the difference between getting real answers and walking away with more confusion than you started with.

Fewer Questions in a Lie Detector Test Get Better Results

Polygraph testing is not about asking everything under the sun. At our NYC lie detector office we usually recommend keeping it between 3 to 5 questions.

The questions must be clear, specific, and direct. They should get to the heart of what you are looking to learn. There’s no point in beating around the bush, it’s better to ask the exact thing you want the answer for.

Every question must also be answered with yes or no. We can help you craft your question so that it is a yes or no question if you are unsure of how to word it.

Why Vague Questions Do Not Work in Lie Detector Tests

People often try to ask emotional or overly broad questions that do not belong on a polygraph. These questions lend themselves to subjectiveness which can impact how someone answers. At the end of the day everyone has lied and when you ask an overly broad question like “Have you ever lied to your wife,” it’s too vague.

Other common examples of questions that don’t work in polygraph tests include questions about feelings instead of behavior. Questions like, “Do you love your husband?” These are based on emotions which can fluctuate, like they might not love you in that moment while they are being subjected to a lie detector test. As opposed to facts that cannot be altered such as, “Were you at a hotel on such and such a date with such and such a person?”

If cheating is the concern, the question should reflect that directly. Instead of dancing around the subject it’s worth just asking them directly “Are you cheating on me?”

We Help Clients Get the Questions Right for Lie Detector Tests

Most people need help structuring questions properly. They know what they want to learn but they aren’t sure what to ask to get that information. As experienced lie detector test examiners we have years of expertise and have helped thousands of individuals get to the truth.

We will review your questions before the appointment and make suggestions as needed. If you are looking for a polygraph test in New York City contact American Eagle Investigations today to book your appointment.