THE multiple-choice examination is not a multiple-guess exam. It is a form of assessment where students are asked to select the best possible answer out of a selection of usually four responses. The correct answer is always among the responses. For this reason, many students consider multiple-choice questions (MCQs) to be easier than essay or structured questions, but they can actually be difficult and should not be trivialised.

MCQ exams contain numerous questions which ensure coverage of a wide range of material, moreso than essay exams. The material is in jumbled format but you are expected to be well-informed of details such as specific dates, names or vocabulary.

Many MCQs test your reasoning ability and will therefore require application of knowledge. Your critical thinking abilities need to be sharp.

Many students believe that the MCQ is phrased to trick them. This is not true! What is true is that some questions will require thought in order to decode them. Others are designed to challenge you and to encourage deep thinking. For those reasons, it is important not to rush when reading your questions.

Elements of the MCQ

A standard multiple-choice exam consists of a problem (stem) and a list of possible solutions (options). The options will consist of one correct or best option and the other options are referred to as distractors. Usually, one of the distractors will be close to the correct answer and could pose a challenge.

Common distractors used are statements that are true but do not answer the question. Make sure that the response you select is answering the question asked.

Preparing for the MCQ exam

Preparing for the MCQ exam

• Begin studying early. Long-term memory requires repeated review of material. This means that time is necessary. Begin your review from Day 1.

• Sharpen your comprehension skills. Because MCQs can be phrased in many different ways, it is crucial to possess a good understanding of the material.

• Develop your own questions. It is a good idea to practise among peers by designing and swapping questions that you have written.

• Practise. If possible, practise from past papers. This will familiarise you with possible questions and will alert you to any misconceptions present. Some textbooks will have MCQ practice at the end of chapters. Make use of this resource.

In-test strategies

• Read questions carefully and underline qualifying words used in questions and answers. Qualifiers are words that alter a statement. Examples are: all, always, never, none, not, some, many, few, sometimes, except, both, only.

• Resist the urge to answer the question before you have read it all the way.

• Read all your answers. Even if answer ‘A’ immediately appears correct, do not ignore the other answer choices. One may actually be a better choice.

• If the question appears difficult, leave it, but make sure to come back to it. When you return, read it several times to ensure your comprehension.

• Read all the suggested answers before making a selection.

• Be alert to any clues found in grammatical construction of questions. For example, if a question ends in “an”, it is likely that the answer begins with a vowel.

• Eliminate answers from the selection that you know are clearly incorrect.

• Try using the cover-up strategy. This is where you read the question and then try to answer without looking at the answer choices.

• Do not change your answer unless you have good reason to do so. Usually, your first choice is the correct one.

• Watch out for “all of the above” and “none of the above” options.

• Be on the lookout for verbal associations between key words in the question and the response. This is usually an indicator of the correct answer.

• In many cases, the correct answer is lengthier than the other options.

• Look out for double negatives and make them positive.

• Provided that there are no penalties for wrong answers, make an intelligent guess, if you must. Whatever you do, do not leave a question blank.

• Ensure that you have shaded the correct bubble on your answer sheet. If you miss a line, this will throw off all answers. It is helpful to use a ruler to keep you in the right place.

• Budget your time by dividing the total minutes by the number of questions, but be sure to make allowance for time needed to look over the paper.

• Remember to keep calm even if you feel the exam is challenging.

Effective test-taking requires critical reading and thinking skills. Your best defence is to study and practise regularly. You can do it!

Dr Karla Hylton is a graduate of the biotechnology programme at the University of the West Indies. She operates Bio and Chem Tutoring, a Kingston-based teaching programme that specialises in CSEC biology and chemistry. Reach her at 404.4506, biochemtutor100@gmail.com, or at www.khylton.com

Dr Karla Hylton is a graduate of the biotechnology programme at the University of the West Indies. She operates Bio and Chem Tutoring, a Kingston-based teaching programme that specialises in CSEC biol

ogy and chemistry. Reach her at 404.4506, biochemtutor100@gmail.com, or at www.khylton.com