What describes a structured interview?

A structured interview is characterized by a systematic approach where the interviewer follows a predefined set of questions. This method is typically highly organized, meaning that the questions are ordered and planned in advance. The interview is conducted in a consistent manner, often at a designated time and specific location, which helps ensure that the gathered information is comparable across different interviews.

This structure is particularly useful in research or professional settings because it minimizes variability and allows for easier analysis of responses. By adhering to a standard set of questions, structured interviews can yield reliable data that can be quantitatively assessed or statistically analyzed.

In contrast, the other options depict attributes that are not aligned with the nature of a structured interview. The mention of informal and flexible elements suggests a more casual and adaptable format, which is more typical of unstructured interviews. Therefore, the key aspect that defines a structured interview is its ordered questions combined with a planned time and location, ensuring uniformity and consistency in the interview process.