Literal question
What did....do most during the past 12 months - for example, did you/he/she work, look for a job, keep house or carry on some other activity?
Interviewer instructions
The main activity is what the person did most during the twelve-month period prior to enumeration. Please note that the term “most” need not be continuous. The categories listed are as follows:-
1. Worked An individual is classified as having worked if he/she was engaged in the production of goods and services for sale. Usually working entails the person receiving a wage, salary or other form of recompense, but trainees and apprentices whether paid or not, as well as unpaid helpers and family workers on commercial farms and other enterprises are also to be listed as worked.
2. Had a Job But Did Not Work This category applies to persons who, although they had a job, spent most of the 12-month period prior to enumeration away from the job because of illness, injury, vacation or for some other cause. Also included are persons on temporary layoff or industrial dispute, that is, where a formal attachment to the job can be established.
3. Looked for Work The person must have spent most of the year (i.e. the 12 month period prior to enumeration) actively looking for work. This includes writing letters of application as well as actually visiting work places or houses in search of employment.
4. Wanted Work and Available This category includes persons who are ready and willing to work but who did not actively look for work during the 12 month period.
5. Home Duties
6. Attended School
7. Retired
8. Disabled, Unable to Work
These categories (5 TO 8) cover those persons who, although 15 years and over, were/are not economically active.
Note: It is quite acceptable to shade home duties for men.
Do not forget to specify the activity if 9 – Other is shaded. Note that if options 1 or 2 are shaded, you must skip to Q.89.