Principles Multiple-Choice Items

The following general principles should be observed when multiple-choice items are constructed:

1. Each multiple-choice item should have only one answer. This answer must be absolutely correct unless the instruction specifies choosing the best option (as in some vocabulary tests).
2. Only one feature at a time should be tested: it is usually less confusing for the testes and it helps to reinforce a particular teaching point.
3. Each option should be grammatically correct when placed in the stem, except of course in the case of specific grammar test items.
4. All multiple-choice items should be at level appropriate to the proficiency level of the testes.
5. Multiples-choice items should be as brief and as clear as possible (though it is desirable to provide short contexts for grammar items).
6. In many test, items are arranged in rough order of increasing difficulty.