How to ask probing questions-Tips for probing questions

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What does "probe" mean?



Probe means to examine a particular topic, to acquire fine details from it. This acquisition of brief information leads to a call of action or an actionable response. At times you've tried to get as much possible info through your colleagues, but your questions weren't strong enough. Probably, those questions were multi-directional with no specificities, or even if they were narrow, they failed to trigger a particular call of action. In this blog, you'll find the best rules of thumb to keep in mind while asking probing questions.


Good probing questions are:

  1. Inquiry questions:




Be a detective-ask for cause




As the name suggests, probing questions asks for in-depth information and is curious to know the cause for a particular situation. You have to act exactly like a detective to obtain bits and pieces of information. Remember you are holding on an inquiry. Some examples of inquiry questions could be;

  • Why did you do it in this way?

  • What caused you so much trouble?

  • Why was this path taken?

2.Concrete questions:




Be a judge-ask for evidence




A good probing question asks for solid instruction. Concrete questions are inclusive of facts, figures, and particularities or what we call "path function." They're concerned with each factor involved in the process. Some examples of good concrete questions are;

  • Can you give me some examples of this?

  • Can you provide me with solid facts supporting this idea?

  • Is there any proof for this?


3.Orientation questions:




Be a guide-ask for goal/ destiny




An orienter is the one who assists a newbie in adjusting to a social situation or a local routine. Good probing questions are good orientation questions that let you know whether a specific action fits the circumstance or not. While acquiring knowledge/information is your ultimate goal, remember to put that information on your objective scale and check the extent of it. Additionally, ask narrow questions, which bends you towards the focal point. 

Examples of Good orientation questions are;

  • What is our goal?

  • What is our main problem?

  • Are there other solutions?

  • What triggers the process for.......?

Don't use weak wordings in your questions like "Can you describe....?"

"Can you explain........?"


The bottom line:


While asking probing questions remember to be a detective, a judge, and an examiner all at the same time to get the best call of action. Good probing questions are strong, specific, and well-constructed so do their answers will be. Remember to listen like a sponge once you've asked a question and give some pause after asking each question for better responses.


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