A rating scale is a tool used to measure opinions, attitudes, or behaviors by assigning numerical values to different levels of response. Commonly used in surveys, these scales can range from simple 1 to 5 or 1 to 10 systems, where higher numbers indicate more positive responses, to more complex formats like Likert scales, which assess agreement or satisfaction. Rating scales help researchers and organizations quantify subjective data, making it easier to analyze and compare results. They can be applied in various fields, including psychology, market research, and education, providing valuable insights into people's preferences and experiences.