Tips for Multiple Choice Test Items

1. Read the directions carefully.  Circle any key words so you will be clear about how you are to indicate the answer.

2.  There are two types of multiple choice statements.  Both types have a stem and a choice. 

A. The first type is an incomplete statement with answer choices.  You choose the answer that correctly completes the statement.

Example:  There are ____ letters in the alphabet.  (stem)
1. 22
2. 26 (choice)
3. 20
4. 24

B. The second type has a question with answer choices.  You choose the answer to the question.

Example:  How many letters are in the alphabet? (stem)
1. 22
2. 26 (choice)
3. 20
4. 24

3. Answer the easy questions first.  Mark or star those questions that you need to go back to later.

4. As you read the stem, try to answer in your head before you look at the choices.  Be sure to read the entire stem.  Some questions may say "which is not..." or "except/"

5. Read all the choices.  See if any choice is similar to the one you think is the correct answer.

6. If you cannot decide on a correct answer, look for and underline any key words found in the stem or answer choices.
Key words: best, most, right, incorrect, wrong, least, more, all, never, less, all, always

7. Cross out any answers you know are wrong.

8. Reread the stem with each remaining answer choice to see which one sounds correct.

9.  Look for grammatical clues. Verb tenses should match.
Example: A flower needs
A. waters
B. sun

10. Answers to questions you are unsure of can often be found on other parts of the test.

11. Guess only when you have no idea of the correct answer.

12. If you are not penalized for guessing, guess!  You have a one in four chance of getting it right.

13. The longest statement (stem plus answer choice) is often the right one.

14. If two choices are similar, the answer is unlikely to be either one of them.

15. Usually your first choice is the correct answer.  Don't change the answer unless you misread the question.