Focus Group Moderator Guide

The Qualitative Researcher | A Subthesis Resource

Use this guide to plan and facilitate focus group sessions. Print or save as PDF.

Session Details

Study Title: 
Focus Group #: 
Date: 
Location: 
Moderator: 
Note-Taker: 
Number of Participants: 
Planned Duration: 

Ground Rules

Read aloud to participants before beginning the discussion:

  1. There are no right or wrong answers. We are interested in hearing everyone's perspectives and experiences.
  2. Please speak one at a time so we can capture everyone's contributions accurately.
  3. Everything shared in this group is confidential. Please do not share what others say outside of this session.
  4. It is okay to disagree with one another, but please do so respectfully. We value diverse viewpoints.
  5. Please silence your phones. If you need to step out, feel free to do so and return when you are ready.

Discussion Guide

TimeQuestion / ActivityNotes
Opening
(5 min)		Welcome, introductions, review of ground rules, and consent reminders. 
Warm-Up
(5–10 min)		Ask an easy, inclusive question to help participants feel comfortable sharing. Example: "Tell us your name and briefly describe your experience with [topic]." 
Key Question 1
(15–20 min)		  
Key Question 2
(15–20 min)		  
Key Question 3
(15–20 min)		  
Closing
(5–10 min)		Summary of key points discussed. Ask: "Is there anything we haven't covered that you feel is important?" Thank participants for their time. 

Post-Session Debrief

Complete immediately after the session while observations are fresh.

Overall impressions and key takeaways:
 
Group dynamics observed (e.g., dominant voices, silent participants, tensions):
 
Surprising or unexpected responses:
 
Nonverbal observations (body language, tone, energy shifts):
 
Topics that need further exploration in future sessions:
 
Methodological notes or adjustments for next session:
 

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