Master the techniques for writing effective test items that accurately assess knowledge and skills.
The Art of Item Writing
Good test items are more difficult to write than they appear. They must accurately measure specific learning outcomes. They must be clear and unambiguous. They must discriminate between those who know and those who do not.
Multiple Choice Items
The stem presents the problem or question clearly. The key is the correct answer. Distractors are plausible wrong answers. All options should be parallel in structure and length.
Writing Effective Stems
State the problem completely in the stem. Use positive phrasing when possible. Avoid absolute terms like always or never. Include all information needed to answer.
Creating Good Distractors
Distractors should be plausible to those who do not know. Base distractors on common misconceptions. Make all options grammatically consistent. Avoid obviously wrong answers.
Beyond Multiple Choice
Constructed response items show process and reasoning. Performance tasks assess application. Essays measure complex thinking. Each type has appropriate uses.
Quality Review Process
Subject matter expert review ensures accuracy. Editorial review checks clarity. Field testing reveals problems. Statistical analysis identifies weak items.
Conclusion
Item writing is a skill developed through practice and feedback. Investment in quality item development produces assessments that accurately measure learning.