Planning Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Here is a development process you can use when planning your MCQs.

01 Alignment 

01. Alignment

Identify the learning outcomes, level of cognitive complexity or competencies required for assessment.

02 Question Outline 

02. Question Outline

Write a broad outline of topics to be assessed based on the alignment to the learning outcomes.

03 Stem 

03. Stem

Write the MCQ stem.

04 Distractions 

04. Distractors

Write the key (correct answer) + 2-3 plausible distractors.

05 Model Answers 

05. Model Answers

Write model answers and explanations for each question.

06 Review 

06. Review

Review with peer/s using checklist (DOCX, 167 KB), pilot and re-write if required.

07 Analyse 

07. Analyse

Use question analytics to review responses after deployment.

08 Rewrite 

08. Rewrite

Re-write questions if required.