Answering Multiple Choice Questions

Multiple-Choice Tests

Multiple-choice tests are one of the most common testing formats for classroom tests, competency tests and for entrance exams to college. Learning a few strategies for taking multiple-choice tests can go along way towards helping you do well in school and preparing for both college and a career.

The following are the two most common types of questions you’ll find on a multiple-choice test.

Question Format #1 – Fill in the blank.

A fill in the blank question is usually formatted as an incomplete statement where you are required to fill in the blank to complete the statement. When given this type of question you are usually provided with four answer choices. You are then required to selection the choice that best completes the statement.

The following is an example:

The 13th amendment to the U.S. Constitution is addresses .

a. The right to bare arms
b. Freedom of speech
c. Abolition of slavery
d. Right to an attorney

The correct answer is “c”. In this example you would circle the letter “c” to complete the statement “The 13th amendment to the U.S. Constitution addresses abolition of slavery.

Question Format #2 – Select the correct answer.

This format for multiple-choice questions is straightforward. You are presented with a direct question and several possible answers. You are then expected to select the letter that represents the answer choice that correctly answers the question.

The following is an example:

How many counties are there in the state of Utah?

a. 17
b. 15
c. 29
d. 22

You should circle “c” to show that there are 20 counties in the state of Utah.

Helpful Hints for Taking Multiple-Choice Tests

1. Carefully read the statement to be completed or question to be answered. Then underline, highlight or circle the most important words in the statement or question to help you focus on the information that is most important.

2. Even if you think you know the answer make sure to read all of the answer choices before circling one.

3. Cross off any answer choices that you know are incorrect. This will help you narrow down the selection of choices and focus only on those answers that may be correct.

4. Look for answer choices that are opposites. More often than not when two answer choices are opposite one is likely to be the correct answer.

5. Your initial answer to a multiple-choice question is usually the correct answer. Don’t change your answer unless you are positive that another answer choice is correct.

6. Select “all of the above” if you are sure that all the answer choices are correct.

7. Choose “none of the above” only when all the answer choices are incorrect. Do not select “none of the above” if even one answer presented is correct.

8. Look for answer choices that include language used by your teacher, written in our notes or found in the textbook.

Understanding the different formats for multiple-choice questions as well as some helpful hints for answering multiple-choice questions will help you improve your performance on multiple-choice tests.