Best Practices
Answer keysWhen preparing the answer keys for your multiple-choice exams, please note the following important information:
- Answer keys must be provided by the instructor on the mark-sense form type that was used for the exam.
- CAT personnel are not allowed to make any changes to any answer keys under any circumstances. Changes to keys must be made by the instructor or authorized TA.
- Avoid using the same key for multiple exams. If you must administer the same exam multiple times, change the order of the questions and the order of the options between administrations to increase exam integrity.
- Make sure each key is clearly identified with the word "key" and a group reference, such as "KEY-GROUP A", if using multiple groups.
- Completely fill-in bubbles with a #2 pencil.
- To omit a question, leave it blank on the key.
- Ensure that you select only one answer to each question. If multiple answers are chosen, no numeric value will be recorded and the corresponding question will not be graded correctly.
- Do not use any form of corrective tape or liquid on scan forms, as this causes expensive damage to the scanners and will not be processed.
- Ensure your key is free of stray marks as this may cause unintended additional values or render the key unreadable.
- Do not write in the timing line as this renders the key unreadable by our scanners.
- Ensure your key is not dog-eared, folded, or ripped as this may cause the key to be unreadable.
- Do not use staples, tape, or sticky notes as these may block or damage the scanners.
