Which statement best defines a leading question?

• A. A question that clarifies the protocol.
• B. A question that asks for a yes/no answer.
• C. A question that asks for detailed technical information.
• D. A question that provides a probable answer to an expected response by the dispatcher.

Answer: (D)

Leading questions push toward a particular answer by hinting at what that answer should be. The best definition among the options is a question that provides a probable answer to an expected response by the dispatcher, because it frames the inquiry in a way that nudges the respondent toward that anticipated reply. In practice, this means the question is built around the dispatcher’s assumptions, steering the caller to confirm them rather than letting the caller reveal information freely.

Clarifying the protocol is neutral and aims for shared understanding rather than guiding a specific reply. A yes/no question can be neutral or merely a quick confirmation and isn’t inherently leading. Asking for detailed technical information focuses on depth of content rather than directing the answer toward a pre-set conclusion.