Open questions: As you get further into the interview your questions may begin to address more sensitive information. These typically include open questions, which means the questions cannot be answered simply with a yes or no, or other short response. Open questions probe for information and seek to trigger stories and memories from your interviewee. Examples include the typical journalistic questions of what, where, when, who, and how. They also may include phrases such as:
Try not to be too rigid with your questions. They are supposed to a jumping off point for your interviewee's stories and memories. Part of the value of oral histories is that stories often wander off topic to memories we would not have known to ask about and that greatly enrich the overall project.
Don't forget: Photographs, heirlooms and other objects can also help trigger memories. Invite your interviewee to bring any materials that might help them to explain or describe events.
Adapted from Oral History Toolkit, Claremont Colleges Library