How to read poll results
Last updated: 2026-10-16Ask who participated first
A Truedo result reflects the choices of the members who took part in that poll. People who encountered it and wanted to respond may differ from the wider population. When sharing a result, say “among participants in this poll” rather than “everyone thinks”. A geographic label does not prove that all respondents live in that location.
Separate participants from selections
Truedo allows one selection in polls with 2–5 choices and up to two different selections in polls with 6–9 choices. A member choosing two options is one participant but contributes two selections. Displayed percentages are shares of total selections. Check both counts before presenting a percentage as a proportion of people supporting an idea.
Do not treat small differences as certainty
The leading choice may be only slightly ahead. With few participants, a handful of new votes can change the order. Report the participant count and the time of the result alongside percentages. Results in an open poll may change later; a screenshot records only the moment it was taken.
Examine the question as well
A missing choice, leading wording or two ambiguous options can make interpretation difficult even when votes are recorded correctly. The absence of an option does not show that nobody holds that view. If member contributions are enabled and space remains, suggest a choice. Request a review if you notice a content concern.
Match the evidence to the decision
Choosing an activity for friends requires different evidence from making a medical, legal or financial decision. Use Truedo results as a starting point for discussion. Representative research requires separate planning of the target population, sampling and question design. Do not derive a population estimate or margin of error from an open internet poll alone.