Computer-assisted interviews: A method or technique of interviewing subjects in which the interviewer reads the question from the computer screen instead of the printed page, and makes use of the keyboard to enter the answer. Skip patterns (that is 'if so-and-so, go to query such-and-such') are built into program, so that the screen automatically shows the appropriate question. Checks can be built in and the immediate warning given if a reply lies outside the acceptable range or is inconsistent with earlier replies; revision of earlier replies is permitted, with the automatic return to the current question. The responses are entered straightly on to the computer record, avoiding the requirement for subsequent coding and the data entry. The program can make automatic selection of the subjects who need additional procedures, like supplementary questionnaires, special tests, or follow-up visits.