Multiple-choice

The multiple-choice response type allows test takers to respond to an item by selecting from an array of options, which can include images, MathML, or styled (italic, bold, underlined) text. Each option is displayed with the following elements:

• An ordinal alphabetic option label (A,B,C, etc.) (Optional; SQ and SBT multiple-choice options do not include the option label.)
• A selection indicator (either a radio button or a checkbox; see the Checkboxes & Radios page for more information)
• The option content
• An Eliminate Choice button (Optional; SBT multiple-choice options do not include the Eliminate Choice button.)

Multiple-choice option arrays can be presented in one or two columns. For both layouts,

• Left and right margins separate the option array from stem and stimulus text.
• Maximum width is set so that the maximum line length for option text is approximately 50-60 characters.
• Minimum width is approximately twice the width of the response option label.
• A Clear Answer button is provided beneath the options, aligned to their left edge. It is styled as a small secondary filled button (see the Buttons page for more information).

Multiple-choice options have the following states. Colors match those of the Grid response type.

• Default. Options are surrounded by a light gray #CCCCCC border. The option label (if present) and selection indicator are on a light blue #D6EBFF background.
• Hover. Visible when the cursor is over the option in its default state. Border becomes blue #7FBFFF , and the pointer cursor is shown.
• Selected. The border color changes to a bright blue #198CFF , and the selection state of the radio button/checkbox is toggled.
• Eliminated. Invoked by the Eliminate Choice button. The option label (if present), selection indicator, and content are dimmed to reduce their salience.
• Disabled. Visible when the button is inactive (e.g., when a modal system tool like Scratchwork is enabled). The option label (if present), selection indicator, and Eliminate Choice button are dimmed to indicate that they are inactive.

In a single-select multiple-choice response, the test taker is only able to select one option. Selecting another option will deselect the previously selected option.

In a multiple-select multiple-choice response, test takers may select as many or as few options as desired.