We've put together this list of tips to help you have a great experience as a UserTesting participant.
Before you accept a study
Be honest. Be yourself!
A big part of what makes your perspective valuable is that it's unique. Not everyone thinks like you do! We think that's great, and so do researchers. That's why studies use screeners to help match you with the right opportunities. Always answer screener questions honestly—your genuine responses are what make your feedback meaningful.
Hide your personal information
Close any personal chats, tabs, windows, apps, or other private information you don't want recorded or shared with the researcher before you begin.
During a study
Carefully read and complete each task
Researchers often need you to complete tasks in a particular order, so don't work ahead of the task instructions. If you experience a problem during a study and can't complete one or more tasks, use the Help feature to report a problem.
Exit the study or report a problem as needed
There may be times when you're unable to complete a study due to a technical issue or another problem. You always have the option to exit a study at any time or report a problem.
Bonus tips for recorded studies
Speak loudly and clearly
When you're taking a study, we know it can feel like you're just talking to your screen. However, on the other side is a researcher eager to hear your thoughts and understand your experience! Find a quiet area and remember to talk loudly enough for your microphone to pick up your audio.
Imagine you're talking to a friend
We understand it can feel awkward to think out loud. It can help to pretend you're explaining your experience to a friend who can't see your screen.
To help the researcher understand your experience, share as much detail as possible.
Your feedback might sound something like this:
- "I just opened the page/app, and I see…"
- "I'm looking for…"
- "I see a button/link/image here that I think I should select because…"
- "That's not what I expected to happen. I thought…"
- "This is confusing to me because…"
- "I think this means…"
- "I like/dislike this because…"
- "This was easy/hard because…"
- "I would change…"