Completion Rate Calculator
Find the percentage of started surveys that were completed.
How completion rate works
The completion rate is the percentage of surveys that were started and then finished. It measures how well your questionnaire holds respondents from first question to last.
A low completion rate usually points to a survey-design problem: it may be too long, confusing, or poorly optimised for mobile. This is different from response rate, which measures participation out of everyone invited — not out of those who began.
The formula
Completion rate = surveys completed ÷ surveys started × 100
Divide the number of completed surveys by the number of started surveys, then multiply by 100.
Worked example
500 started, 400 completed
400 ÷ 500 × 100 = 80%. So 80% of people who started the survey finished it.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between completion and response rate?
Response rate is completed responses out of everyone invited. Completion rate is finished surveys out of everyone who started. Completion rate is always about the people already in the survey.
What is a typical completion rate?
Well-designed surveys commonly see 60–90% completion. Much lower and the questionnaire is likely too long, repetitive, or broken on some devices.
How do I improve completion rate?
Shorten the survey, remove redundant questions, show progress, and make sure it works on mobile. Drop-off is often highest on long or repetitive batteries.
Related research methods
- Survey Research
When to use this tool
Use this to monitor questionnaire drop-off — how many starters reach the end.
Assumptions
- A clear definition of a 'start' and a 'completion'.
Limitations
- Dropout can introduce bias if those who leave differ systematically from those who finish.
How to interpret the result
A low completion rate suggests questionnaire length, flow, or burden may be causing respondents to drop out.
How to report the result
Report the number of starters, completions, and the completion rate.
Next steps in your analysis
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