The Anatomy of a Good Multiple Choice Question
While many of us rely heavily on multiple choice questions to evaluate learning, not all quiz questions are created equal! In this article, we will walk through several examples to learn the key characteristics of a good multiple choice question.
1. Provide ample context
The root of your question should provide enough context to centre the student in a particular lesson of the course. Let’s take a look at a question that could use some improvement.
Q: Turtles are a/an… (Choose one).
A. Aquatic animal
B. Vertebrate
C. Herbivore
D. Animal that mates for life
In this example, the available options are a source of confusion. It isn’t clear what competency is being tested; is it the ability to classify animals by diet, anatomy, or habitat? The learner will likely need to spend some time understanding the intent of the question. They may also fall into the trap of prioritizing an answer that more closely resembles the content they have seen in class.
This improved version includes more information that doesn’t make the question “too easy”, but instead allows the focus to lie on the competency at hand:
Q: With regards to diet, a snapping turtle is best classified as a/an:
A. Herbivore
B. Detritivore
C. Omnivore
D. Carnivore
2. Offer distinct, plausible options
While it can be tempting to throw in a joke answer as Option D, MC questions provide the most accurate snapshot of student understanding when all of the available options are plausible. Try to think about what common missteps or pathways students might use when thinking of the answer, and include those options as well. Here is one example:
Q: What is 4-2x4?
A. 8 (This is the answer if the subtraction is done first).
B. -6 (Correct answer).
C. 32 (This is the answer if all the numbers are multiplied).
D. 12 (This is the answer if students switch the subtraction for an addition by accident).
3. Treat negatives with care
Consider the question:
Q: Which of the following is not a mammal?
A. Salmon
B. Beaver
C. Polar Bear
D. None of the above
It can be very frustrating for learners when they miss a small word that changes the meaning of the question entirely. Consider re-wording your questions to avoid negatives if possible. Here are some examples of questions that are more straightforward.
Q: Which of the following is an example of an amphibian?
A. American Toad
B. Black Bear
C. Salmon
D. Dolphin
Q. Select all the mammals from the following list (Multi-Select).
A. Seagull
B. Squirrel
C. Blue Whale
D. Hamster
Remember, the goal with your multiple choice questions should be to assess your course learning objectives. Using plain language and straightforward questioning strategies is key to ensuring your learners aren’t caught up on semantics or interpretation.
Reach out to Learning Services!
Our instructional designers are here to help you refine your quiz questions for clarity and concision. We can help to ensure your evaluations are providing the best possible snapshot of learner achievement. Reach out to learn more!